Nor Cal Joiners

No Santa For Us!

2010-11-27T23:54:00.000-08:00

We tried to go see Santa, but my kids hate Santa! Well they don't hate Santa but they want nothing to do with him if seen in person. No sitting on his lap no talking to him simply just get them out of there! Ah the good holiday fun!

A Crying

R holding onto Daddy as tight as possible

So instead we played in the leaves, ate candy canes and cookies then sipped on some apple cider. I really hope one day my kids will love Santa I just want a cute picture of my kids with Santa, is that to much to ask? Shot it doesn't even have to be cute but at least one with them at least looking happy to be there!

Makes Me Happy!

2010-11-13T13:32:00.000-08:00

Regan and Avery (My best friend's daughter)

Zoo Day

2010-11-12T08:19:00.000-08:00

Last week we went to the zoo with a few friends, it was a perfect day. There may not be a better way to spend the day this time of year. The weather is cool but the sun is out which means we were all comfortable and not feeling so hot we just want to sit in the shade and the animals seemed to like it too!

Our little animals!

I couldn't look at this snow leopard without thinking about Kung Fu Panda!
That is just how my mind works now!

Some of the kids got to feed the giraffe.
Regan did not want to she stayed safely behind the fence and watched!

Then the kids each took the chance to make Ayla laugh.
This really means the took turns shaking their booties in her face!
But she seemed to think it was funny!!

So happy to spend a day with friends!

We Love Halloween!

2010-11-03T23:02:00.000-07:00

We love Halloween so much that R could not sleep the night before! We had to go in her room a couple of times to tell her she needed to go to sleep and every time we opened the door we were greeted with, "I am so exciting!" She is four and we probably should correct her but exciting is really the only word she uses incorrectly and we just think it is so darn cute. And really how exciting is it to go trick or treating with your best friend!

I started Halloween with my second half marathon! I really can't believe I have run two now! Who do I think I am? I ran with my friend Nicole so about an hour after we started running Nicole's family picked up David and the kids and they all headed over to the finish line to cheer us on. It was great to be able to run and have my family at the end!

Tahoe!!

2010-07-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

In the Beginning of July we got to go play in Tahoe with both of my sisters and their families. It was lots of fun but also very busy plus David could only stay one night so having two girls to myself and funny schedules and not sleeping in their own beds made for a few battles with Regan. But it is not very often that we can get all the kids together so it is worth it!

We played at the beach which was covered in ladybugs! I don't mean we saw some ladybugs I mean there was one on you at all times! The kids loved it and caught many!

We also got to relax a little while the kids ran wild on the roof of the hotel, we found a letterbox, and enjoyed some pool time. The kids were beat and so was I for about two days after getting home!

It was great seeing you and your families my sistas! Wish we lived closer to one another!

Oh I almost forgot my favorite photo. My favorite photo because I'm sure if I dug deep enough into the old family albums we have this picture of me and my sisters and brother when we were little hanging out in the spa tub in our room. I don't know why but wearing your swim suit in a giant tub in the middle of a hotel room was so much fun!

Polite Pete the Pirate

2010-06-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

Regan loves loves loves Pirates more specifically Polite Peet the Pirate by Hullabaloo!

Well they call me Polite Peet the Pirate
I sail the seven salty seas
I rob and I loot
I pillage and I plunder
But I always say thank you and please!

Sometimes Daddy plays along too! :)

Buddies

2010-06-16T14:58:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had a playdate with the Jones's. The kids made their own pizzas and played and played and played. Turns out going to their house makes for a very easy day for me. The best thing about Regan's buddies is their mom is one of my buddies from high school! So I a also got to eat pizza and play too! :)

Letterboxing

2010-06-10T07:55:00.000-07:00

We found our first letterbox! Mim will be so proud! About a year ago Mim told us about letterboxing, my first thought about what letterboxing was is not appropriate to post but I knew if it was coming from my mom I must be wrong about what letterboxing means.

People have hidden letterboxes (stamps) in parks along hiking trails to be found. When you find a letterbox you sign their "guest book" with your own stamp and trail name and then you can keep a book for yourself to collect the letterboxes you find. You can find more info here.

Regan is very into treasure hunts right now so I figured it was a good age to give it a try. So off we went to find a letterbox I thought would be easy. Then there was a creek to cross, fallen trees to climb through and that is when I decided this was not going to be easy with me, Regan and Ayla. So I found a new letterbox to track down. The next set of clues we followed were placed perfectly for kids to search for. We almost missed it but right before giving up we checked one more spot. I sort of just kicked around quickly not expecting to find anything and then there it was!

Thank you FamiLee of 4 for giving us a fun free morning and making it kid friendly!

5 Little Ducks Went Out One Day

2010-06-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

Over the hill and far away...

Well really there were 10 little ducks, one pony, 4 horses, 3 goats, 4 pregnant bunnies, 30 chicks, 1 emu, 3 mini cows, and a dog on our recent visit to the Ranahan side of the family. The country half of our family does not own all of those animals many belong to the neighbor but the neighbor was nice enough to let us come take a peek at her critters too.

Peeking in at the baby ducks.

The baby ducks came out to play and they were sooooo CUTE!

This is Molly the pony that is just "Regan's size!"

Riding Molly

Grandma is Free to Play!

2010-06-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

Grandma just retired! We had no idea what to get her. They plan on doing a lot of traveling so I thought of getting her a nice weekender bag but I think she already has plenty of luggage because they already travel a lot! So then I read something that said get them something that has to do with how they will spend their time and well David and I are hoping they will spend their time with the kids. actually I don't think we have to hope I am pretty it is a done deal. So I ran around with the kids getting pictures and gift cards and merry-go-round tokens and here is the gift we came up with. It was fun and we hope she likes it and can't wait to help fill up her time! :)

I love the picture with the hearts. I wanted to do it for valentine's day but never got around to it so I have been waiting for another reason to do it. I got the idea from a blog that makes me smile Color Me Katie.

Saturday Night's Parties

2010-05-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

Are not what the used to be...

but they are perfect!

I am grateful

2010-05-02T23:55:00.000-07:00

I am grateful

for my fun, caring, supportive good looking husband
to have healthy, beautiful and sweet children
to have such a loving family
for my mom who has always made the dinner table an important family moment
for the roof over our heads
my friends that push me to be better
the oppurtunity to be at home with my children
my dad and all his free medical advice for his paranoid daughter
for my sweet nieces and nephews
that facebook has put me back in touch with friends who made such a major impact during different phases of life
that my sister Megan has taught Regan to spell her and Ayla's name thru a fun song
and now Regan is learning the days of the week from another fun song from Aunt Megan
my caring, know we can count on them anytime in-laws
that my best friend has held that position for 23 years
for bloggers who share and teach their amazing talents
that Regan's best friends consist of her two cousins that are close in age and my bestie's daughter that should just be considered another cousin
that my husbands believes in me even in all my craziness
every time Regan comes in the middle of the night to snuggle with me in bed
every time I get a solid night sleep with no kids in our bed
when Alya makes me feel like I am the only person in the world
for the laughs I get watching Chelsea Lately
that my daughters have four great grandmas and a great grandpa
the amazing friendship my daughters have developed
my in-laws houseboat that we have an open invitation to :)
time alone with my husband
time alone with Regan
time alone with Ayla
when my sister Marisa asks me to call after a drive of even just 30 min so she knows I made it home okay
the amazing group of mommy friends I have that keep me sane, keep me motivated and encourage each other everyday
when my brother comes by to play with his nieces
for my brother and sister in law who are so much fun to hang out with
for Piper who curls up at my feet ever night
for another year with friends and family!

Happy Birthday to Me! :)

Week 3

2010-03-23T15:21:00.000-07:00

Here are my favorites from week 3 only one week left!

Week 2

2010-03-14T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorites from this weeks class

"Mommy I broke my batella..."

2010-03-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

This is what Regan told me as she sat on the couch with her legged raised up on pillows insisting that she needed an ice pack and to just rest and watch a movie. Poor little girl right. Not so much. Just a dramatic little girl with some sympathy pains.

Last week David broke his petella and is currently in surgery at this very moment having the fragments removed or having the pieces all screwed back together. They wouldn't really know until they got in there but I imagine someone should be out to tell me soon. Anyway David broke his petella and he had to keep his legged raised with an ice pack and was watching movies to pass the time. So when Regan fell on her knee playing outside she came running to me "mommy, mommy it hurts so bad I can't even stand on it!" She started limping in a very dramatic fashion and then pulled up one knee to point to it and say "this is the only leg I can stand on." As she was standing on the leg she couldn't stand on. :)

So we propped her up next to daddy put her leg on a pillow, put cars on and gave her a little piece of chocolate to help with the pain. It was cute. Maybe it was bad parenting to play into her injury faking self, but I don't really care. It was funny and cute and I love that she is so in love with her daddy that she wants to be just like him even when he is broken. :)

Learning something new

2010-03-09T08:30:00.001-08:00

So I started taking an online class so that I could finally at least understand my camera and its 500 million functions. I just finished week one and here is my favorite picture from my assignments. It helps that Regan is Super Cute! :)

The Happiest Day of David's Life.

2010-03-04T08:29:00.000-08:00

You may think I am going to write about our wedding day or the first day we met and how he knew he found the love of his life. :) Or the birth of Regan and Ayla and how amazing it was to hold our little babies and how life truely becomes at that very moment a miracle. But I am not.

David is not mushy. The only Valentine's day cards I get are funny ones. The only anniversary cards I get are funny ones. He tells me he loves me every morning before leaving for work but I don't think he will ever say the phrase love of my life. He loves his daughters too but he is not so amazed by the miracle that he wants more children. No he is happy with two and the toddler years have knocked life a little off the miracle chart.

Until the other day. Because toddlers can do things now. They are little people who can actually learn skills not just eat sleep and poop. And Regan learned one of David's favorite skills of all, snowboarding. Really I don't think I have ever, ever seen a bigger smile on his face. We took the kids up to Tahoe for a day in the snow. A friend of ours told us to go to Soda Springs because for $20 you can switch between tubes, skies and snowboards for the kids. It was perfect. We were there for hours and both girls loved it. We tried Regan out on skies first. Look at those tiny skies, are they not the cutest thing you have ever seen?

But she hated it. Well I shouldn't say hate but maybe I should.

So then we thought maybe she just needs to warm up a bit so we went on the tubes which was so much fun that I thought we would never get Regan off.

She also LOVED riding the magic carpet, this might of been her favorite activity of the day.

I thought the idea of skiing was over until next year but why not try one more time so I told her she could have hot chocolate with lunch if she tried skiing one more time. Amazingly she agreed. So after lunch we went back to try again but decided on trying the snowboard instead. As David took her up I found a spot at the bottom of the hill to play with Ayla. Thinking that this wouldn't really last long at all, and then I looked up and to my surprise David had let go and was running along side her!

I really don't know what I like best about these pictures Regan's tongue hanging out in a Michael Jordon pose while she concentrates or David smiling with total pride. Plus I love the hand pump action too he just couldn't control himself.

It was a perfect family day! :)

Maybe I do believe in time travel...

2010-03-02T08:04:00.000-08:00

How I did I come to this conclusion? Well I am pretty sure I went back to 1983 for a couple of hours! Regan was invited to her first Roller skating party it was a blast and roller rinks DO NOT change. It was exactly the same as I remember walking into a rink when I was a kid. I do not live in the town I grew up in but the rink was almost identical to the one I remember, which I might add, the last time I went I broke my elbow. I really think I felt my arm twinge!

As you can see the skates have not been replaced. (Grossed me out a little, at least put new laces on!)

The music was the same I can't even remember the last time I heard Eye of the Tiger!

The smell was the same.

The carpet was the same.

They still had the same lamppost style lights along the carpeted wall. (Do you remember those? I didn't until I saw them!)

The only difference was the party room. That room seemed so big to me as a kid. But really there was only room for the kids and one or two adults. :) I guess really the room didn't change I just got bigger!

I was so proud of Regan! I thought for sure she was going to hate it. But she didn't she put those skates on and enjoyed every moment of the awesome time warp party! Although she didn't want me to take any pictures of her, notice the hand telling me to stop? And the best part is this little three year old who is trying her hardest to give up nap time came home and slept for almost four hours!

Why I Wish I Was Still Working...

2010-02-09T23:24:00.000-08:00

Okay so other then the obvious more money, my children are driving me crazy, my brain needs exercise and adult conversation. There are some not so obvious consequences of my not working. I guess it really comes back to more money but there are things I find myself doing to try and save money. Like shopping at less then foodie desirable grocery stores, which by the way my friend is able to make look good just look here. I find myself clipping coupons, going way to long in between haircuts, wearing clothes that well basically I shouldn't. All of these I can somehow live with. I tell myself it is not forever we will get back on track and tacking care of girls is more important then clothes. I think I tell myself that one daily.

But today I think I did try a money saving option that may not have been worth it. First let me tell you this is $50 I saved and we used to do it almost monthly so I was thinking shot I could save $400-$600 a year! And so I did it myself. Are you ready to hear. I shaved Piper. Now simply saying those words does not sound that bad but the fact is the dog is hairy! Plus she was getting dread locks so it was time. So if you are brave enough to continue on and see the small dog I removed from Piper today.

Now there are a few things I can predict from sharing this picture. First my brother in-law, Keith, will say "and that is reason number 304 not to have a dog." Second someone will not read the posting and just look at the picture do a double take to try and figure out if that is a dog or not. And thirdly the next time I think "maybe I should shave Piper" I can look back at this post and think long and hard about if I really want to do that again.

Also I have to say if Piper could speak she may choose for me to NOT shave her again. Look at this poor puppy I think she hates me. I know she doesn't trust me. For the rest of the day she would not come if I called her. :(

But here is why I love that I am not currently working! Regan and Ayla found their new favorite game to play together today! Please excuse the lack of clothes on my daughter I would have blacked it out but I figure the blurriness of picture took care of that.

Happy First Birthday Ayla!

2010-02-02T23:32:00.000-08:00

Little Miss A turned one last week. We had just a small gathering of friends and family to celebrate. And good thing because our poor little girl was not feeling well. In fact after five days of antibiotics we found out today that she is not getting any better. So now she is on a stronger medication and an inhaler. Not the way to start your second year. But we celebrated her first year and even though she wasn't feeling well I think she enjoyed her day.

Here she is with her sister and their cousin Wild Jack. Jack needs his own post to explain the wild and I may even need to include a video for the first time on my blog simply because a still picture cannot show the wild side of Jack.

Then we had cake. And I so badly wanted a cake topper from The Lollipop Workshop but it was closed for the whole month of Jan. :( So I had to try and make one myself. I don't think I did that bad, not quite as cute but it would have to do. I also made a cute little birthday hat for Ayla which she of course refused to wear. Oh and I made a checkerboard cake! I loved it and was so happy that it turned out because you really don't know until you cut the cake! My sister got me the kit oh about nine years ago and think this is only the second time I used it. I may have to pull it out more often!

Ayla didn't really know what to do with the cake. I so badly wanted her to dig in and get it all over the place. I think it is so cute when the kids do that but alas she barely ate it. Most of the frosting on her face and fingers got there because David and I kept sticking her fingers in the cake trying to get her to taste it. Come on kid it is sugar you should be going nuts! But at least Regan and Avery had no problem walking right up and showing her just how to dig in.

After cake she was DONE. I think she took the longest nap of her life. So then Michele (Grandma) and I thought maybe now she will eat the cake. And sure enough a little sleep is all the girl needed.

I must share!

2010-01-23T12:49:00.000-08:00

So last night I was up until 2 am. Lost in the blogging world unable to sleep jumping from site to site based on photos alone. And if I opened a blog and it was to busy or not pretty I left. I was really to exhausted to read I just wanted to look at pretty pictures. You would think I would be sleeping after two days of being with a sick three year old who has been so cranky I have to remind myself not to get angry she is sick and also done with being in the house and watching movies. Anyway back on the subject I came across inchmark and it may now be my favorite site to visit. I already have plans to make two of the projects she has posted so don't be surprised if you see some of this coming your way. I really think my blog travels have taken me to this site before I remember the layout. But this time even though I was not in the mood to read I did this site is probably why I couldn't sleep. I loved everything. Here is the picture that took me there. I think I love it even more because it looks like drawings Regan is currently doing of people. I love kid art! I can't say enough I wish I was her!

No more excuses!

2010-01-20T23:24:00.000-08:00

So it is pouring rain and windy as can be, Ayla is napping, and Regan is watching a movie so I have no excuses not to update my blog finally! Although I probably could be cleaning something, doing laundry, making a grocery list but isn't that always the case?

It has been so long what to talk about there is so much so don't be surprised if in the next few days you see a few post dated items that make it look like I haven't skipped a beat! :) Last week we were in San Diego and the weather was so nice. NOT at all rainy or windy and it was so nice to enjoy some sunshine. We also enjoyed just visiting we had no big plans just to hang out with Marisa, Keith, Sam and Elise and how nice it was. We enjoyed some time at the park, sometime at the beach, and time at the house!

Here are just a few pics from our park time. The girls rode their bikes, and now the question is do I tell the story of my poor supervising. It just about killed me and my sister. Well here it is, Sam was going back and forth about whether or not he was going to the park how he was getting to the park, bike or scooter or walk. Anyway I was walking ahead with the girls and Elise was quite a bit faster then Regan so I was between the girls or back with Regan or ahead with Elise trying to keep them happy. Well then the sidewalk started to go downhill and I was back with Regan and we were coming to a corner when Elise started to roll faster and faster she was losing control I was in panic! I started running but I was too far. Oh it killed me to watch her roll toward the street. Luckily there were no cars coming but I could hear her calling for help and I coudn't get there. :( Thank god she was able to make the turn and not go in the street but she had her first good bike crash. Poor little thing she hit the grass so no injuries other then I am sure she was scared to death!

But that brave little girl got right back on her bike. It took awhile to settle down but then she got on that bike went to the park and had fun. I know she will never remember the day but she just might remember the feeling. I hope she will continue to be brave and not let the falls in life ever bring her little go getter spirit down. Sooooo sorry my little Elise!

Santa Claus

2009-12-03T07:58:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year!

I love the cold weather

I love Christmas lights

I love peppermint hot chocolate

I love Christmas music

I love winter meals

I love Christmas cookies

I love giving presents

(I don't mind getting presents)

I love snowmen

I love seeing the magic of Christmas and Santa Claus all over again thru the eyes of my girls!

Last weekend we were up in Nevada City and decided to take the girls to the Empire Mine, and I am so glad we did! There is a beautiful old cottage there that is rarely open and it was open along with cookies and apple cider. Santa Clause was in another building, and he was an excellent Santa. They had all of the equipment buildings open and working. There were blacksmiths at work one even made me a salt spoon! I loved the mine it was a much better place to see Santa then the mall. I think it will become a new tradition in our family!

I tried to include pictures of the blacksmiths and the mine but it seems blogger does not like my photos! I will try again later...

A Way of Life...

2009-11-25T10:38:00.000-08:00

Tonight at dinner Regan told David and I "Play for the rest of your life." I personally think my daughter is wise beyond her years! :) And I hope that in 20 years she is living by her own words and still playing. I just LOVE that little girl!

Bath Time!

2009-11-18T22:41:00.000-08:00

Bath time is a big even now that Ayla is old enough to sit in the bath with Regan and it also may now be my favorite time of day. First it means bedtime is nearing! Second they our so stinking cute together. Ayla could splish and splash all night long if we let her and Regan carefully picks out toys for Ayla to play with before ripping them away and trading it for another. Luckily Ayla seems to find this routine funny. They crack me up I love to watch them play together.

This bath moment actually happened in the middle of the day you can't see it so well in the black and white photo but look closely at the one in color. Regan and I were working on an art project using glitter when Regan got close to the cup of glitter and decided to blow as hard as she could. So no I didn't put eyeliner on my child nor was this halloween. It was simply a three year old figuring out just what happens when you blow on glitter! :)

Might as well show the cute pic of Ayla too, I just can't get enough of that little side grin!

A Phone Call to Princess Belle

2009-11-05T07:52:00.000-08:00

So yesterday Regan and Daddy got into a conversation about whether or not princesses use the potty. Our head strong little three old occasionally goes thru stages where she figures out we control her all day long and well potty time we can't control! It is not pretty and although everyone says don't get angry it is so hard not to! Especially when she has been using the potty and then just decides to stop one day.

So as David was debating with Regan if princesses use the potty or not he blurted out, "Do you want to call a princess and ask?"

Regan quickly said, "Yes let's call princess Belle." (Beauty and the Beast princess)

I made a quick call to my sister Megan, and told her when we call in the next few moments it will be Regan calling for princess Belle to ask about the potty. And so Megan did just that and the conversation went something like this...

Megan: "Princess Castle"
Regan (after a little prompting): Is princess Belle there?
M: One moment let me check for princesse Belle.
M: Hello this is princess Belle.
R: This is Regan (she was a bit nervous to be talking to a princess and was talking very softly)
M: How are you doing Regan.
R: Good. Do princesses use the potty?
M: Oh yes we do use the potty. I was not able to wear my pretty princess dresses until I learned to use the potty.

They talked a little longer about potty usage and then got off the phone and within about five minutes Regan turned to David and excitedly said, "Daddy I NEED to use the potty!!!"

Thanks Megan for playing along and lets hope this head strong three year old does not go back to her controlling ways tomorrow! :)

Oh Yeah!

2009-11-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

So not only were there a bunch of treats at the Halloween party but there were also a bunch of dressed up kiddos! I love to think that in 10 years these kids will be coming over to play with Regan and Ayla and we will be able to show them pics we have of them when they were little.

Monica and Ayla

Sweet Peyton! I don't know what it is about this little boy but I love him sooooo much!

Sweet little Addie! Such a girl!

There is that cute little Peyton again!

Hey Victor! I can not say Victor's name without singing Victor Vito!

Regan's BFF Avery!

Is this not the prettiest little girl you have ever seen? Look out mom and dad you will have boys calling on Taylor in high school!

Victor's new brother David! He has the cutest smile I just couldn't catch it! :(

My Baby A!

"The Girls"

Hailey, Hailey, Hailey! (Avery can never say her just once and now it has kind of stuck)

Cameron the little Devil!

And we can't forget the little pirate!

Treat or Treat!

2009-11-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

Is it possible to gain 10 pounds in one evening? Last night we went to a Halloween party and well I will tell you the dessert options were plenty and of course I had to try them all! Thank you Carlene for all the sweet treats!

You know when you go to eat or drink something and when you take a bite you almost want to spit out whatever it is because it was not what you were expecting? Well this is nothing like that oh these little cupcakes looked so good I had to try one but when I took a bite it was not a cupcake at all but a frosted brownie. And I did not care one bit that it was not the cake I was expecting! :)

And these cookies, yes I did consider each different type different I mean really the frosting to decorative sugar content is different on each so I had to figure out which one I liked best...

There were also caramel apples, and donut hole eyeballs, and oh how I love Halloween treats!!!

A Day With Our Cousins

2009-10-25T23:49:00.000-07:00

Normally I only get to see my cousin Julie and her family on holidays or other major family events. This weekend though they made the trip up from the Bay Area to spend the day with us. It was so great to see them and get a chance to talk to them for more then the typical five minutes at the family gatherings before we are off chasing our kids or trying to make all the rounds of saying hello to everyone.

We had a nice day at the park on the swings, running around like monsters, flying kites, hunting for bugs, spinning so much the kids were falling over, and then we headed to frozen yogurt! Where I learned that cute little Riley is so picky about food that he doesn't even like ice cream because it is cold! He is a very picky eater but at least the foods he will eat are fairly healthy because I know ice cream would be on my list of foods I enjoy if I were to only pick five things to eat! ;)

Field Trip!

2009-10-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

Regan had her very first field trip! Her first field trip took her to Bishop's Pumpkin Patch. This is the cutest pumpkin patch I have ever seen. There is so much to do and good food too!

First we rode the train...

Then we took a hay ride out to pick our pumpkins...

Regan and her friend Carson searched and searched until the perfect pumpkins were found...

Then the kids found a bug and had to share it with their teachers...

Here is the Pumpkin Regan found, she was so proud! :)

Next we were off to the pig races where our pig Sponge Pig Square Pants won!

It was a great day. I loved seeing Regan play with all her new school friends and who doesn't love the pumpkin patch?

Apple Hill

2009-10-18T14:12:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and the Halloween activities begin. One of my favorites is Apple Hill. This cute little area of apple farms has great activities for the kids crafts, pony rides, apple picking, pumpkin patches all sorts of good stuff. To be honest I am not so sure I would enjoy it without the kids although there are a few wineries so the places we pick to stop at would probably just be different.

On this trip we met two very nice families that were new to the area. They are military families so one of the wives told me she is always new tho the area! It is a very different way of life. And although it sounds appealing to get the chance to live in so many parts of the country I began to see how hard it can be on families. She was very supportive of her husband but was pretty honest on how hard it is to always be making new friends and getting to know new areas. I always bug David to move. I look up jobs and homes in other states, being from California and buying a home at the worst time possible I have developed a hobby of looking at homes in other areas and saying "holy crap! Look what we can afford here!" However my sweet husband listens to me and then goes about his day with no intentions of taking me up on any of my finds. And thank goodness he hasn't or I might have us moving more then military families have to!

Anyway back to Apple Hill at our first stop Regan got to ride a pony. She waited patiently to pay for her turn which she waited extra long for so she could ride the "big pony." We found out the pony's name was peaches. We also had to check out all the pumpkins, which I think is one of Regan's favorite things activities, she just loves pumpkins!

Our next stop was our favorite it is number 22 on the Apple Hill map but I can't remember the name! This place had a maze, animals, a pie shop with caramel apples, caramel marshmallows, tasty apple pie and lots of other items with about 5 cups of sugar!

A Day For Taylor

2009-10-05T21:41:00.000-07:00

We walked for Taylor! It was a beautiful day to be out and walking and it was nice to see so many people come together for this walk. Taylor is a very loved little girl. Thank you again for the donations to the walk!

Walk Now For Autism

2009-09-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

On Oct 4th our family will be walking for Autism with Team Taylor. My niece Taylor was diagnosed with Autism when she was three years old. She is now six and making daily improvements. She is a beautiful little girl and enjoys all the same things as any six year old, swimming, soccer, horseback riding, Disneyland! Autism Speaks helps provide programs and bring awareness so that Taylor has the opportunity to participate in all the activities she enjoys.

If you would like to make a donation to Team Taylor please click here! Thank you!

First Tooth

2009-09-07T23:18:00.000-07:00

Ayla got her first tooth when we took our trip to Southern California a month ago. I kept thinking she would get her second tooth any day. I have been saying any day now for a month and well still no second tooth. I actually love that she has only one tooth so much it has provided her with a new nickname, Toof! I love that little smile and I love my little Toof!

Happy Birthday!

2009-08-22T15:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Regan,

Today you turned three! And your Dad and I can hardly believe how quickly these three years have gone by. This year has been a big year for you between traveling to visit your cousins, learning to swim to the side of the pool by yourself, potty training, and most importantly becoming a big sister! You amaze us!

There are no maybes in your world you know exactly what you want when you want it. You are still daddy's little girl which I think you may never grow out of. You are happiest when daddy wakes you up in the morning to have breakfast with you. Normally breakfast is pancakes or oatmeal and you will happily sit on your daddy's lap and eat as slowly as you can so you can enjoy every second with him until he leaves for work. Only minutes after he leaves you will begin asking me when daddy will be home and if he can feed you breakfast again. To let you in on a little secret I think daddy loves breakfast time with you more then you do. He cherishes those morning minutes with his little girl before going off for a hectic day at work.

You are also an incredible big sister. You are loving, protective, and concerned when it come to Ayla. You love to see you sister happy and laughing and will do whatever it takes to make her laugh. If we are packing up to leave the house you always remind us to bring Ayla and if your sister is out of your sight you will search the house asking, "Where's Ayla?" It means the world the to me that you love her and you call her your best friend. Your Dad and I love watching you two interact with one another and the excitement I feel to be so lucky to watch the two of you grow up together is almost overwhelming.

You are special beyond words, we love you birthday girl! And it is our privilege to watch and help you grow!

Isn't she lovely, Isn't she wonderful....

2009-06-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Shh don't tell David but here is a sneak peek at his father's day present, I can post this because well David doesn't do the whole internet thing unless it is for work or he is reading it over my shoulder. All of the pics in this post were taken by Nicole Fields Photography.

Aren't they sooooo cute! I love looking at these pictures.

Pushups pushups and more pushups!

2009-06-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

Okay so here is the deal, a friend in my mother's group, Nicole, told me about a website that can get you to do 100 pushups in six weeks. My question is, really? Because when I tried to do them I could only do six! And well I just can't imagine ever being able to do 100. So I am giving it a shot and trying to get to 100 in six weeks, I will believe it when I see it. But best of all if I get there I am going to challenge by brother-in-law (and hopefully make a few bucks) because he will never ever think I am capable of 20 pushups, which as of today he is right. Anyway if you want to try it too just to say you can go here. There are also links to doing like 200 sit-ups and squats, but I got to take this one workout at a time.

Lisa if you are reading this don't tell Brian!

Also here is another secret, for the very first workout I started at the lowest level possible because even though I did six for my initial test I could barely do two when I started the program.

Day one done only 16 more to go! Doesn't seem that bad does it? I will let you know how it goes and maybe even include a picture of my guns if I get there. And you will just have to trust me when I say currently no guns!

Kretive Blogger Award

2009-06-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

Really Me? Thanks Marisa I am terrible at keeping my blog up to date and well not all that creative. But Marisa is my sister so she has to show me some love. :) So this award does just that and now it is my turn to spread the love. Here is the deal now that I have been issued the award I must pass it on to 5 others and also list five things I love. I wonder if this is how the award rules worked in the very beginning or if this is like the blogger version of telephone. Who got the first award? And have the requirements changed at all since its creation? Anyway if I selected you as a winner you now know this award does not come freely it is your turn to spread the word about blogs you like to read. Have fun and thanks for passing it along! :)

MaceMoments

This is my oldest sister's blog. It is brand new but I know it will be one to watch because I have some funny nephews, my sister is a great writer and she, unlike me, is very organized and I am sure will be very good at updating her blog and sharing good stories.

nicolefields.com

This is friend and my most favorite professional photographer, maybe because she has taken some great pics of my kids! But I love looking at her blog and seeing her most recent work. I hope to one day take pictures half as good as she does.

Bakerella

My sister Marisa introduced me to this blog and all I have to say is cake pops! Check it out so cute!

Blakebunch

This is my sister-in-law's sister, do you follow that? She is great with updates she always has them and I have noticed some very cute crafty ideas that I love.

SweetAddieVintage

Cute blog design, cute jewelry, cute kids, cute shoes (she never shows a picture of herself), just simply cute. And then so funny to read, she can be blunt about motherhood which can contradict all the cuteness of her blog makes it interesting and fun to read!

Okay five things I love...

1. My Husband

2. My girls Regan and Ayla

3. My amazing group of mommy friends that keep me motivated to be a good mommy and remind me to be good to myself!

4. My Camera, not my photos just yet but I will get there! :)

5. My Kitchen Aid Mixer

I Miss Her!!!

2009-06-11T22:28:00.001-07:00

I miss Ayla so much! You might be wondering where a four month old goes to make her mother miss her so much it aches a little. Well I will tell you they don't have to go far. Up until last week Ayla was still sleeping about a foot away from me in a little moses basket. She was an arms reach away and I liked it! To be honest I also didn't mind if she fell asleep in bed curled up next to me. I cherished every moment and even if I wasn't sleeping well it didn't matter she was happy and so was I. But David was ready for us to have our room back and even the pediatrician told me to get her in the crib now before it becomes to late and life becomes hard to make changes. So I did it she is in her crib and I miss her! But...she doesn't miss me! :( She is sleeping fine and in fact can be placed in the crib wide awake and calmly watch her mobile and suck on her thumb and fall asleep. I thought she might fuss I thought there would be a few nights where I would have to go in and get her and rock her back to sleep but nope she sleeps soundly. I know I shouldn't complain I am super lucky to have a four month old sleeping all night but I wasn't expecting it.

Regan was in the crib after a week, this really means she was in her crib for about three hours before I had to go in and feed her and fall asleep with her in the rocker. I had a kink in my neck for about 10 months and I would have enjoyed that kink a lot more if I knew how quickly she would grow up. Ayla and Regan share a room so I was going to keep her in my room until she was sleeping well so she wouldn't wake Regan and I thought I would have her for awhile. But then she was sleeping all night at two months! I know fantastic right? But what? Just two months? I wasn't having it. And then the pediatrician told me she should go, David was ready for her to go and then I saw this....

Yes those are her feet. :( She is long and well has just out grown the moses basket.

but isn't she cute? All though she is looking at me like yes mom it is time for me to move on, I won't be far just a few a steps away, please mom I need more space!

So there it is my baby is growing up and this is only the first of many transitions that I am sure will be harder on me then her.

Nursing Ayla

2009-05-17T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is a picture that when being taken I never thought I would share let alone put on the net for others to see. But I want to make sure I always remember what it was like to nurse my babies because although tough at times it really is the sweetest thing ever. I think the quiet moment with the baby is the sweetest thing ever and now with Ayla at 4 months and smiling she will pause from eating just to look up and give me a smile. It can bring me to tears! I remember loving these moments with Regan too but never took a picture of it.

I almost didn't allow this picture to be taken but my friend Nicole, who is an amazing photographer and a total inspiration, convinced me to let her take the picture when she was doing a photo shot of the girls. And now I have it framed on my night stand and am ready to share it with the world (because I know the world is watching my blog, ha)! And I think every nursing mom should have a photo like this to remember the amazing moment. So here it is, can't really believe I am sharing! (I am such a prude it really does not show anything, except I my bad roots! Lesson learned never go to a photo shot with Nicole without being ready for a picture myself!) Thanks Nicole for capturing this moment!

Family Dinner and Dancing

2009-04-09T22:43:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Rina has been in town this week for work so tonight we all got together for dinner at my mom's or Mim's I should say, that is what the kids call her. For this evening I made my first cheesecake tasted good but I need to work on the presentation. :) It was a nice mellow evening and it was great to see Rina who we don't get to see that often. And Regan took an instant liking to her and she asked her to dance with her after dinner and even gave a few pointers on how to dance. At least how to dance like a 2 year old! :)

Okay now put your arms straight out.

Then spin like this...

Good job!! I think you got it!

She also saved a dance for Daddy!

Ahh Cute Family...?

2009-04-08T21:29:00.000-07:00

Ahh what a great evening, my husband brought home dinner, then gave our two year old a bath and got her ready for bed while I got the 2 month old ready for bed. We all then gathered into our bed to watch a movie. It was a sweet evening such a happy little family. Don't you think?

You would think so if Regan wasn't poking Ayla in the face every time she was about to fall asleep and if early in the day Regan had pooped twice in her pants yet to ruin two more pair of underwear! One accident being at the mall, so embarrassing! The worst part is I constantly think I am smelling poop during these potty training days because I am paranoid and well because half the time I am! But is so much nicer just to write about the sweet stuff isn't it. But I figure one day I will laugh at the awful moments too, so I better remember them as well!

Cake Pops and Stupidity!

2009-04-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

Today Regan and I made Cake pops from the Bakerella blog, and they are so stink'n cute! I should say that I made and the cake pops and Regan enjoyed eating them. In fact when I asked her if she wanted to decorate hers or just eat it she said "I'll just eat it" very matter of fact like. Who needs cute decorations just give me the good stuff. I think it is killing her that we have about 30 sitting around waiting to go to our Easter Egg hunt tomorrow and she can't touch them. How dare I tease her! And you will understand after you see these pics, they are so cute! My sister Marisa made blue birds ones so I had to make the bluebirds and the chicks from bakerella so I figure mine are blue and yellow canaries. :)

But Kerry the title also says stupidity? Where is the stupidity in cake pops? It wasn't in the cake pops it was when David went to a Kings game and I decided that I would take the girls out to dinner. So Regan, Ayla and I walked to a Mexican food for girls night. Regan right next to me the whole way with her own little stroller and baby. Which she parked in the restaurant right next to her seat, so cute she will be a great mommy one day. Although this dinner with a toddler and a two month old was a gutsy move it turned out to be a good night. And lucky for me. While sitting there I started thinking if Regan starts to have a fit I am in big trouble! So that was the insanity of my day, I do not recommend trying this at home!

Baking

2009-04-02T22:24:00.000-07:00

Regan, Ayla and I woke up this morning and took a nice walk and returned home to bake brownies! Hey at least we started with a walk! Ayla is only two months so I figure I still have an excuse. :)

I think baking is one of Regan's favorite activities or maybe it is the licking of the spoon. I remember licking the spoon when baking with my mom when I was little, I know it was my favorite part of the process I think I just would have been happy always eating cake, brownie, or cookie dough batter raw.

I can't not add a picture of Ayla so here she is in her daytime sleeping spot, the swing!

2009-03-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

So the weather was hit and miss today and so when you are stuck inside what better to do then to dress up then dance and jump on mommy and daddy's bed!

I noticed when posting these photos how well you can see the pictures above our bed. Those are pics of Regan when she was about nine months old and I swear her face looks exactly the same! She is a little bigger, her hair is a little longer, but her face has not changed she still makes the same expressions today as she did then. I can't believe how quickly we have gotten here she is growing up to fast!

As for Ayla she has been smiling this last week and smiling a lot. I was finally able to catch it on camera but you should have seen how many photos I had to take! She is now six week old and already sleeping through the night for me! At least giving me a solid seven hours! Thank you Ayla! Your sister did not begin sleeping through the night until she was ten months old. I only hope this will continue. I will keep you posted!

HA HA!!! I REALLY am terrible!

2009-03-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

So I guess I have proven I am not good at sending out photos of my girls or at updating my blog! And yes I said girl so you now know from my last post that I have had the baby and she is happy and healthy. Her name is Ayla and she was born Jan. 27th. Although anyone who reads this blog probably already knows that!

So what has happened in the last 8 months that has kept me away from updating my blog? A lot!! But I will just touch on the main events. First Regan turned 2 can you believe it, now she is two and half but here are a couple photos from the big girl's b-day! Regan had a great day and being that it was the first time she ever had a juice box she never put it down once she picked it up! She still continue to drink her juice that way I think if we gave her to much juice at once she would forget to breath.

During October Regan and I took a trip to Utah to visit all the family that is now there. Aunt Megan, Uncle Britt, Aidan, Ashton, Uncle Pat, and Grandpa Ranahan. I never guessed I would have so much family in Utah! But is is beautiful there and we love to visit! Aiden and Ashton we great with Regan and Britt got some great pics and Ashton and Regan dancing that I will have to get back to to post! We did so much while we were there from Halloween pics of the kids, the pumpkin patch, and Regan and I even spent a day in Megan's class. Megan's class also happens to be Aidan's first grade class so we got a two for one deal. It was so cute to Aidan at school. He is so big and to think he was the start of this whole next generation.

Oh my goodness you should have seen me on the plane, pregnant, toddler, stroller, car seat, bag, it was stressful! But on the way home I checked that car seat, at least I had one less thing to worry about. But when I saw this picture it reminded me of how cute Regan was on the plane. She was so excited and I was so embarrassed when we sat down and she shouted "I just tooted!"

We also got the chance to take a trip down to southern California. I was in my friend Jennia's wedding, it was beautiful wedding on the beach and it gave us a chance to visit the Farnsworths and go to Disneyland. It was a great get away with lots of good family and friends.

Marisa and Keith were nice and brave enough to watch Regan while David and I attended the wedding. They spent a day at downtown disney and by the hotel pool, and bought Regan a cute pair or Minnie Mouse pajamas that she still talks about getting with Elise. The next day we all went to the Disney Breakfast! It was cute the kids especially Sam really enjoyed it.

After breakfast we had to say goodbye to the Fabulous Farnsworths and meet up with the Perez family! Time for Disneyland Regan and Avery had a blast. What a great age to take kids to Disneyland it really made an impression on Regan. Actually I did this a little backwards because we went to Disneyland before going to Utah. Megan then requested we never go to Disneyland before a visit because Regan was dissappointed every morning we woke up and we weren't going to Disneyland. She thought we weren't at home we must be going to see Mickey Mouse! Right?

Isn't she so darn cute with all of her loot. Thank you Marisa and Keith for the PJ and thank you Ted and Carlene for the ears, we got off easy because everyone else bought her gifts!

We spent the holidays with family and I hosted my first Thanksgiving! But it was just us and my grandma so it was small but the Turkey was so good if I do say so myself. Here are just some photos to catch us up. Although I do think I owe Ayla one complete posting of her own so that will be coming soon!

The Polar Express Train Ride with the Joiner Clan! So Fun!!! And Regan's first white christmas!

Okay so I think that is enough catching up on our lives for now. I will come back for the rest of the updates soon. Thank you Marisa for inspiring me to get back to this. It is amazing how quickly the days go by and the kids grow up. And I don't want to miss or forget anything!

This is an Announcement from the Joiner Blogcast System...

2008-06-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

We are happy to introduce Baby J!!

Due Date: Jan 30th

Sex: Unknown

Length: 17mm

Weight: not much

Stay posted for updates!

Where have we been?

2008-06-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

Well you will notice that the post below is dated May 27th. That was the start of the sick days! Not just one sick day. Regan was sick for a good week including trips to the doctor and ear infections. The following week it was my turn complete with calls to the doctors and a sinus infection. The week after that David got it for a few days but I think was mainly worn out from taking care of Regan and I. So my apologies I have no new photos but we are back and hopefully will be sharing lots more Regan moments soon!

Sick Days...

2008-05-27T20:09:00.000-07:00

As much as I hate to see my little girl not feeling well, there is something I love about sick days. Terribly selfish of me I know. But I love having an excuse to spend the day doing nothing with Regan. Although it is hard to keep a 20 month old from actually doing nothing.

So we spent the day coloring, watching the Mickey Mouse Club House, washing hands (which Regan is now obsessed with since we got her a step stool and she is tall enough to reach the sink), and feeding and watching our new fish, Fishy.

Regan's buddy Avery just had her 1st birthday and all the kids got to take home a gold fish. So here are a few pictures of Regan enjoying her new fish. Thanks Avery!

A Little Utah Inspiration...

2008-05-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

These are two of my fantastic nephews! And despite the fact they have the same parents you could not meet two boys that are so different, and I love it!! Aidan is on the left and Ashton on the right!

So I recently received an e-mail from my oldest sister Megan, who lives in Utah, she has two boys and is great at keeping track of their recent quotes and things they do to demonstrate their personality. So below are a few updates she sent me about the boys which have inspired me to start the new sections on the right..."Things I have learned from Regan," and "Quotes from Regan."

Thanks Meg for the idea! And make sure to tells those boys how much I love them!

I am watching you...

2008-05-19T23:41:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet sister Marisa,

You complained that I did not do a good job at keeping the family posted about Regan's life and provide recent photos. So I responded and told you I had started a blog, and alas you have not showed up. I got sneaking and added a site meter to satisfy my own curiosity and well you have failed. I watch it religiously and there is no sign of you on the site at all.

Now I will give you the benefit of the doubt and say maybe the site meter isn't working correctly, but why don't you let me know when you read this. And we can make a final judgement from there. And I don't want to hear anymore about how I don't send out new pictures.

Love you,

Kerry

PS This is not just geared towards Marisa, she just gets the brunt of it because she was my inspiration to even start a blog. But you other family members know who you are and I am watching you too!

Daddy's Little Girl!

2008-05-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

Okay so first let me say that I really enjoy the relationship my daughter has with my husband, but....

I carried her for nine months

I nursed her for nine months

I stay with her when she is sick

I hold her hand at the doctor's office

and the list could go on.

SO WHY? Why is it that when I go to get her in the morning I am greeted with, "I want daddy" or "Where's daddy?" Well I want to know what about mommy?! I have searched for some good advice on how to handle the favorites issue but the truth is I just plain think its not fair!! At least for me.

And my dear sweet unknowing husband, tries to tell our daughter to be nice to me and makes her apologize when I interrupt a father daughter moment and I am told "go way, mommy, go way." But I don't know if that helps, I don't want her to be forced to be nice to her mother when daddy is around. And let me clarify, we have a wonderful time when it is the two of us, just when daddy gets home from work that is it she is done with me and wants her daddy. Should I not be offended? Part of me thinks my husband won't get this moment forever either, and I should just let him enjoy it without him feeling guilty that my feelings have been hurt.

So here is to all that take second in the hearts of their little ones, and I strongly believe that someday we will take first again.

And if not with my daughter I will keep having kids until I do. (not really)

I just like this picture...

2008-05-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

Last new photo for the night, I promise.

Although you do have to admit she is so darn cute!

Who's driving?

2008-05-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

Regan and Jack got to drive Papa Ralph's boat this weekend. My advice...

"Enjoy it now kids, because when you are old enough to drive it you may not get to!"

Yes, I said Chickens!!

2008-05-12T22:03:00.000-07:00

The Joiner clan had a very busy weekend! It started with dinner Friday night with Uncle Brian, Aunt Sarah, and Jack. Who by the way just got five chickens!!! They are going organic and raising chickens for eggs. The chickens are very cute and the kids loved them. Why am I not surprised that Brian is the first person I know to raise chickens?

Oh yeah and did we mention that Brian and Sarah's backyard is kid heaven! Big play structure, trampoline, sandbox, garden, and of course the soon to be added chickens! Cousin Jack and Regan love to run on the trampoline and we think the static makes a good hair style on Jack!

Off to the Park

2008-05-06T22:58:00.000-07:00

I have to say that both our girls love the Park! We can no longer say this word in the house unless we plan on being in the car within two minutes and on our way to "the happy fun place" or the "grassy knoll" as we call it so we can't be understood.

Regan loves the slide but I think she loves throwing the tennis ball for Piper even more. Although the ball never goes very far, and when we ask if she needs help we are told "No, I do it!"

Maybe she will be a Firefighter!

2008-05-04T15:44:00.000-07:00

Regan and I went to a fire station last week with her friends, the firefighters gave us tour and handed out red hats, and Regan hasn't taken hers off since! She wakes up in the morning and wants to put it on, or she wants dad to put it on. :)

Watching Regan Grow

2008-04-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Okay so I know I am terrible at keeping in touch so this is my attempt to have a place for family and friends to go and watch Regan grow. So here is my first posting hope you all enjoy, I know we are enjoying every minute with Regan!