For all those who come to this happy place, Welcome!

Costume Pics

2011-11-14T17:50:00.000-07:00

I'd forgotten I took these pics when we first bought the kids costumes. James loved being a Ninja and put on his costume everyday after school.

His mask is a black t-shirt. You can learn many things on the internet.

SHe has that glazed over stare down pat. Now we just need some glitter and sunshine.

She was pretty bummed her prop teeth didn't work out.

She's been watching 101 Dalmatians for a few weeks now and calls her costume "Pongo"

This is way too true to life. She really thinks she's a dog some days.

Handsome Ninja. ka pow, ka chow!... I mean Kadush!

Halloween Party & Trick o' Treating

2011-11-14T10:33:00.000-07:00

This year I thought it would be fun to have a Halloween party with costumes and games. L to R: Tessa, Myla, Crystal, Avery, Anderson, James, Seth, Paige, Cade, Karlee, Lucas (in front) Kaylee and Abbey

I let them all invite a few friends but since it was just days before Halloween a lot of kids had a lot going on and came and went.

I loved the costumes. We had the princesses. Tessa, Karlee & Crystal

We had animals: Lucas (turtle), Abbey (dog), and Karsyn (Hello kitty)

We had Ninja's: James, Avery, and Seth

We had defenders of freedom: Cade (Bumblebee) & Andesron (soldier)

and a Miscellaneous group: Paige (vampire), Myla Cyrus (Hannah Montana), and Kaylee (Asoka - Star Wars Clone Wars)

and a big witch and a baby witch

This was a cool games. We divided up in small groups and wrapped a mummy. First group to use all their toilet paper won - only thing - they had to work as a group.

Paige & Karlee

Logan, James & Karsyn

Avery, Crystal and Karlee having a hard time getting it started.

Lucas, Cade and Tessa worked together really well.

They totally had a system down.

Anderson, Myla & Seth deciding on a plan of action.

James getting mummified.

Paige is crusing.

They had so much fun, lots of giggles going on.

Cade mummified.

Karlee & Myla looking a little tied up.

The winner is - Paige & Karlee

Karlee breaks free from her bands.

James a little concerned about breathing. Toughin up! Your a mummy for heck sakes!

Here they are making bones. We took stick pretzels and put a mini marshmallow on each end and rolled them in white chocolate. Karsyn, Avery & James loved this part.

Our goodie bags were mini brooms. What a fun party. I didn't get pics of the other games. I was out numbered but thanks everyone for coming it was a BLAST!

Here the kids are all dressed up for Saturday Night block party. James and Nick are on the left. Abbey, Paige, and Elle are in the middle with Josh & Zack on the right.

They had such a blast. I didn't take any pics but it was a great night.

Here we are Monday on our way to Grandma's house to Trick or Treat. Paige is trying to keep Abbey awake in the car.

Our little pirate was exhausted.

Here were are sitting out to hand out candy. The candy basket was enormous. We had left overs for weeks that I ate. Annette wouldn't let Jason bring out the couch so we settled for camping chairs.

Abbey & Paige

Paige, Elle & Abbey

No pic is complete without a James

Those are my crazy hyped up on sugar kids

School Pictures 2011

2011-11-04T21:02:00.000-07:00

Here are the 1st professional pics of my baby. I know... I know... Bad Moms of America Club (I am a member in good standing)

I love that you can see her two tiny teeth.

and there is the 'James smile' (where her eyes turn into half moons) that she's famous for.

Here's my Abbey.

so cute - and such a little stinker all in one.

I hear 'momma, you make me laugh' almost as much as I hear 'mom, your makin' me crazy'

Handsome boy! Can you believe he is already in 2nd grade?

I love this one because it shows his cracked front tooth. You know how they say imperfections shows character. This boy oozes character.

He went to the dr.'s today for his infected toe and I took him out to lunch after. He got a Jamba Juice and we were sitting on a nice covered patio eating lunch and he said, 'This is the life. We should do this more often."

Here's the best of both of us. She is smart, cute, and fun to hang out with.

I just dread when she gets old enough to babysit. All my dreams of free babysitting will probably be shoved aside for paid babysitting. She loves kids - some of her best friends are half her age.

Thank goodness she is as good as she is cute and not really into boys yet (knock on wood)!

just the usual

2011-02-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

I found these pics in my camera. These were my helpers for holiday baking. I think these were from November.

Paige has always been with me in the kitchen - a huge help and interested in baking, cooking, etc.

This one is mostly interested in tasting.

and licking...

oh, look messy hands? I don't understand how they could have gotten so dirty.

can you find the baby in the mountain of laundry?

oh, there she is...

now who does she look like? we ask ourselves that daily.

just a little smile - I love it. I could look at that face all day.

Sunday morning cuties!

They were playing Star Wars before I took these. They were having a 3 way light saber battle. It was quite funny to watch.

James would get hit and die, while Paige could only be maimed. Abbey was just the unexpected jab to the knee or stomach.

There's my cutie. Sleeping like an angel.

angels? not so much, but they are pretty good kids. I guess I'll keep them.

Dosn't James look handsome with a tie on? I about died when i saw it. He hasn't ever worn one. He says they choke him. I wonder what changed his mind?

I went into the girls room about 3 hours after they went to bed. I could hear something and wasn't sure what it was.

Abbey was singing to her microphone in the spotlight of a completely dark room. My flash kind of ruins the effect. I was laughing so hard.

Check out Paige - totally crashed while Abbey auditions for American Idol.

This is the bouncer baby Elle sleeps in at night. Abbey was so being so quiet one afternoon and I told the kids to look for her (usually she sneaks in the dog room to feed them raw pasta, or snack on their food or goes outback to play in their water dish)

but I found her fast asleep in Elle's bouncer with Elle's binks in her mouth and a really dirty face. I love this girl so much!

my crazies

2011-01-31T23:44:00.000-07:00

I let the kids use my computer to take pics of themselves in photobooth application last time we had a party. This is what they came up with.

pretty cute boys

cute girls

I don't get it?

This is normal for him.

see they do love each other

gross... saliva in the ear.

Seth was being a vampire? I love the look on James face.

This is just what I do all the time. Elle gets bugged with me sometimes.

The tongue thing again? gross.

Yes. She is a dolly - doesn't she look like James when she smiles?

Good Kids!

2011-01-31T23:30:00.000-07:00

James and Paige were recently recognized for perfect attendance. That is not a type-o, it's true. Perfection in attendance.

I know my mom is flabbergasted reading this (considering I didn't really go to school my senior year) - I feel like it's proof we've kind of had a boring year... stayed at home a lot (Because of pregnancy and new baby) and we didn't have any cool trips to show for it.

I feel kind of like a failure as a parent. Yep. My kid has perfect attendance because we haven't gone anywhere or done anything fun. Well, all that is changing. We are making up for good behavior and missing a couple days the end of this month to go to Disneyland. I will teach my kids school to reward them for good behavior...

We'll not be thinking of school as we ride on Indiana Jones and duck from getting eatin' but the enormous snake or sing along with the birds in the Tikki Room.

Paige is an ace student, you know that old saying, "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree" - I'm thinking for our family it would go more like, "this apple fell from the tree and rolled into the smart kids orchard"

She won the Principal's Pride award in reading - which means she's a super duper reader and if you try to talk while she is reading a book on the way home from carpool she will shush you like a librarian with a megaphone (true story - happened today).

Here she is again getting another smart 3rd grader award. The only thing I remember from 3rd grade was standing on a chair in the middle of class singing, "Oh Mickey your so fine, your so fine you blow my mind! Hey Mickey! Hey Mickey!"because the ADHD kid of the class dared me to.

James won 'the most handsome 1st grader boy in the audience' award, presented by his mom.

Here is Paige with her 2 bff's. - Chrystal Anderson (Jason knew her parents growing up), and Kaylee. We are so glad they moved in.

Cooking Club - party for MLK day

2011-01-18T00:12:00.001-07:00

Since the kids were out of school for MLK day we decided to have a party - a cooking party. Carla, Paige, Tessa, Seth & James. I decided to make them all aprons last minute.

I made these two aprons out of dollar store dish towels with zebra trim and bias tape at the top.

I had bias tape left over from old projects that I used to trim these aprons with. Paige insisted we make chef hats. I used card stock cut in half and taped together for the band with tissue paper for the poof. They turned out cute.

Abbey didn't get an apron (I already have a few 2T aprons lying about) but she was serious about getting her own hat. Tessa's apron matched the boys and was made from left over scraps, rick rack, and bias tape.

This girl is such a poser. Turn on the camera and watch this diva shine.

"You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life

See that girl, watch that scene, digg'n the dancing queen..." - that's Tessa.

Chef Seth and Chef James set to work on the appetizers.

Chef Seth uses a hands on technique to get the peanut butter in the celery.

Chef James goes the traditional route using utensils to constructs his "ants on a log"

Chef Paige (a professional smoothie maker) teaches Chef Carla and Chef Tessa the fine art of creating the perfect smoothie.

For the main course they each make their own pizza's.

Chef Seth goes light on pizza sauce and cheese, but heavy on pepperoni.

Chef Paige "decorates" her pizza making a smiley face with hot dogs.

Don't those look appetizing? They passed on fresh veggies and went straight for cheeses, hot dogs & pepperoni's (I don't get it).

Fine dining at its best - smoothie & pizza's

Chef Paige proves its edible.

Chef Tessa nibbled her pizza but downed her smoothie.

Chef Carla content with a good day of cooking & pirating.

Chef Seth (also a nibbler) loved his smoothie.

Chef James loves the company of his fellow chefs.

Fine dining critique Abbey, exploring textures, uses her hands to "drink" her smoothie.

unexpected visitor

2011-01-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

Friday afternnoon, I'm sitting around in my jams nursing my baby. The phone is ringing and I'm debating whether I want to juggle Elle attached and try to get to the phone.

but I'm so glad I did... it was my big sissa here from Conneticut. It's been 2 years since I've seen her and it was such a treat to have her stop by (She was in town for her nephews farewell) - she and her husband were here for a couple hours and loved all over baby Elle. She is my first sibling to see Elle and beable to kiss on her. Thanks Alli for stopping by. It totally made my day.

Also, I have to post about my Christmas gift. Jason and I said we wouldn't buy gifts for each other. But he is a big fat LIAR. I didn't buy him anything (now I feel like a JERK!)

He gave me $ to pick out a new couch. Our old couch had been around since the late 90's and needed to be replaced 4 years ago. That couch had seen better days but did last the better part of 12 years.

This is my new one. We got it at Pruitts for a pretty descent price. Best part about it Jason & I can both lay down at opposite ends of it and not bug each other. I love it. I also got a new rug (a steal from shoppers outlet), a sexy lamp (big sale at JC Penny home store), and an end table exchanged from my friend down the street (Thanks Abbey)... so the cost was minimal, but the change is drastic! I love it. Thank goodness for lying husbands.

little spazz (aka the mess maker)

2011-01-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

Mess maker - mess maker - make me a mess...

It would have made me mad, but she was so happy to clean it up.

She loves the vacuum. They are fun to play with, gross and dirty, but fun.

Look how adorable my little mess maker is - don't you wish she would come to your house to make messes? (please.)

Daddy has to help her keep focus.

All around the Mulberry bush the monkey chases the weasel, the monkey thought it was all in fun...

Out pops an Abbey!

This was her favorite gift from Christmas. It's Dora's house.

She made a bed inside her little house with her fake "pillow pet"- its an orange bean bag type pillow.

Arrgghhh - it's an Abbey! Run for your lives.

...but she does have great hair!

Here she is fixing her bed. It was bed time and she thought she was going to sleep here.

My little monkey!

Announcing Elinor Kathryn

2010-12-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Born December 8th - weighing in at 8lbs. 15oz. (we like big babies, what can we say?)

Here I am a little tired (12 hours of labor) out but we made it through.

The kids couldn't wait to meet her, but Abbey didn't really care.

James & Paige are in LOVE.

Abbey took this picture of me... so fun. It made her laugh.

James finally got his turn to hold her.

The newest addition to our little family. Isn't she a doll?

This is what it is all about.

Baby loven'

21 1/2 inches long.

I'm so glad I have the worlds best 8 year old helper.

She loves being a big "Sissa"

He just loves babies! Welcome baby Elle.

'Tis the Season

2010-12-05T10:50:00.000-07:00

of course I cried... but even commercials can make me cry when I'm this pregnant.

Santa's Elf on a Shelf

2010-11-27T00:42:00.000-07:00

I wanted to start a new tradition this year and read up on a few people remember as kids (the internet is full of them), I heard one on the radio a few years back about elves that doorbell-ditch and leave Christmas jammies, which has become one of our favorite traditions... lots of squealing and running (my kids).

This year I was reading about nostalgic adults that had versions of the same tradition where an elf sat on shelf and reported the kids behavior to Santa, what a cute idea. A few weeks later in the bookstore I found a mass produced version of this holiday tradition. I didn't really care for the book, the dollar store looking cheaply made elf, or the price tag... so I decided to come up with my own story and elf.

(picture by Annalee Dolls)

I considered making my own elf, until I saw these at Marshall's, They are elves made by Annalee Dolls. They are adorable and completely bendable. I think I picked up a 9' elf for $14. The faces are fabric and painted on, I think they look impish and like Whoville people from the Grinch.

Anyway, next I came up with a poem to read to my kids and begin our new tradition. I would love to share it with you as well - if you want to start this fun tradition too, please feel free to us it and Happy Holidays!!

Harvest Party - Nov 11th

2010-11-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

Since the kids were out of school for Veteran's Day - we decided to have a Harvest Party. I let the kids invite 5 friends each, but I think we ended up with more, which just adds to the fun.

First we bobbed for apples. Brigham was quite efficient at it.

Maddie didn't want to stick her face in water and just picked a pretty one.

Myla was game for it and got it on her second try, Seth sitting behind her just picked one up and started crunching away.

Abbey at first just picked them out and handed them to me.

Karsyn got one in seconds.

She used the stem, smart lil' thing.

Same with Tessa. After the kids bobbed out the apples we stuck sticks in them and Jessie doused them in carmel.

Abbey got into the spirit of things.

That's my girl.

Reese was a champ. He really liked bobbing.

What a handsome boy.

Olivia just picked one out that looked good.

Kaylee wasn't about to be outdone by these little kids.

Chase was so cute, he picked up a few of them looked them over then chose one. He's a boy with good taste.

Cade couldn't wait for his turn.

Who knew bobbing for apples could be so much fun?

Carla was one of the most patient and waited 'til the end to bob.

She got one - good girl.

Next we played eat-a-donut-on-a-string-without-using-your-hands game.

I think it was more fun for me then them.

They were hilarious to watch.

Maddie thought we were crazy for not just using our hands.

She was like, 'this game isn't that hard'

Tessa was determined to eat the donut until it fell off.

She's a determined little thing.

Go Tessa! go Tessa!

Gavin didn't see why he couldn't use his hands, but he was a good sport.

powdery goodness...

Chase was like 'why'd you put it on a string? weird' - he LOVED the donuts!

Reese was also determined to eat the entire thing off the string.

He came out smiling.

Miss Myla loves a good donut.

Same with Olivia.

Brigham could hardly wait for his turn.

This was definitely the highlight of the party.

Caders enjoying the powdered sugar.

James watched everyone before him with serious anticipation.

Seth having his turn.

Good job Seth!

I think he ended up the powdery-est. Notice Abbey eating a donut. I don't know where she kept coming up with them, but she seemed she had a nice supply.

Yummy!

Kaylee was a good sport, despite me moving the donut around and laughing.

She stuck to it and got the job done.

Carla was last and earned her donut.

Her determination payed off.

of course I gave Paigey a hard time. Don't you love the haircut? She cried at first, but I think she likes it now.

She was getting annoyed at me, her donut was doing circles.

Good girl. After this activity we ate lunch and then our carmel apples. What a fun day! Thanks everyone for coming and Thanks Christie & Jessie for staying and helping me out. What a fun day!

Picture Day - Oct 19th

2010-11-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

My friend Jenna from Jameson Photos is an amazing photographer. We've made it a tradition to skip traditional school pictures and just take them with her.

Some how she can capture them at their best, even when having a rough time. Abbey was screaming only 2 minutes before this picture.

I love that I get 3 poses and all of them are amazing... oh, how much better would have my grade school photos looked through a professional lense.

Look at my handsome son! He is so photogenic.

yes. I will admit Jason and I make good looking babies.

I think James might be the only one more excited about our baby then I am. Sunday he spent time giving my stomach raspberries and talking to the new baby. I know she will love this boy.

This girl just gets prettier and smarter everyday.

I know she will be my biggest asset when the new baby comes. Abbey already thinks she is the coolest thing ever - I know Elinor Kathryn will adore her big sissa as well.

Anyway, these are the adorable Buchanan's of the 2010-2011 school year. If you live in the valley or will be here visiting, I would definitely give Jenna a call. She is so worth it! (and better priced then the school's pictures)

smarty party pants & Halloween

2010-11-01T00:29:00.000-07:00

This assembly I went to the other morning at my kids school recognized perfect attendance for the 1st quarter. James is standing up next to Mr. Curry his teacher.

Paige also had obtained perfection.

At first I was super proud - then I realized it's only because we haven't been on any really cool trips this year (dang).

These are the 3rd grade Try Awards. Here the teachers in 3rd grade recognize the students who have made improvements in English, Math, Reading, Writing, or Citizenship (behavior).

Paige has improved in Math be leaps this year. She might even make it into the elusive "Math Facts" club. A really cool elite club at Whittier. They have to do a certain number of problems in 3 minutes with 97% accuracy.

This is Paige, her bff Kaylee, Riley getting an award, and Mr. Husbands (Paige's teacher). He's really different from her teacher last year and has high expectations for his students, but he's been a great teacher for her academically. It's amazing to watch her grow and learn.

This is when your proud to be a parent - despite you knowing her achievements have nothing to do with you... except maybe that you bug her to get her homework done or ground her from the computer when she is playing instead of doing her homework.

This little bug came with me and tried to distract everyone around us as much as possible.

Paige & Kaylee - both got a "Pricipal's Pride" award (not sure what that is except is sounds pretty dang cool.

In the back of my mind I still sometimes think about the possibility of her being switched at the hospital. I catch her in her room at times doing workbooks or reading for fun (whose kid is this?) Except the fact that her Dad is super smart and she does look like his side of the family I might be interested in some genetic testing.

Pumpkin Contest - We love this at the kid's school. No carving aloud. It makes you get creative.

Paige won 2nd place in K-3rd grades Cartoon look-alike. I cut out all the pieces in felt. She painted herself (clothes and any exposed skin - arms, elbows, ankles, etc.) and the pumpkin. And assembled the pumpkin. She did a good job.

This Mike W. from Monster's Inc. was 1st place, I had to take a picture. It was made by James' crush since kindergarten (Aubriann who happens to be in 5th grade)

James entered the scariest category for K-3rd grades, and won 3rd place with his version of Darth Maul pumpkin with double ended light saber, made with Jason's help. (If you don't know who Darth Maul is, Congrats you are not a Star Wars dork so click HERE)

Paige dressed up as Padme (again if you are clueless, it wouldn't hurt to watch a few newer Star Wars episodes, but you can also click HERE). We wrapped her hair around pipe cleaners to get this look. It was crap to take out, but she did look like Abbey with super tight curls and we laughed about it for awhile. I had to work and getting ready was left up to daddy, so no pics. I will let them dress up again and snap a few pics and send them out this week. James dressed as Darth Maul (no picture, again).

Speaking of Abbey she decided to be a pirate last minute this year which was good because I was finding it hard to track down a mermaid costume in 2T. She walked around saying "I a pirate. I a pirate." She had a lot of fun this year. Not sure she got the point of it other then to eat candy and play dress-ups... but really is there any other point?

clean and pretty for the moment

2010-10-24T20:53:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning is the only time all week I feel we all look our best and are clean and pretty, at least for a minute or two (don't forget Abbey is an avid connoisseur of dirt and dog food).

I wouldn't say Sunday mornings are peaceful (I blame that on myself, turn off the blankin' TV and lets have some peace and quiet for CRYIN' OUT LOUD!!) But I love matchy match dresses - as does Paige.

... but they do clean up good and look angelic at least for a little while.

F... is for Family

2010-10-19T19:08:00.001-07:00

Abbey needed a family picture for Monday's joy school. I made a collage with just a couple pictures then I decided Jason needed a new screen saver so I put a bunch of pictures together. We definitely love all our family.

Kung Fu - James

2010-10-05T23:54:00.000-07:00

James has been taking Karate every day after school in the gym.

He absolutely loves it. I guess the first day he kept telling the instructor he had seen Karate Kid (1980's version) and that he already knew a lot from watching TV.

He is such a goofball to watch. Here they are running relays. They have to run to the other side of the gym and do 5 or 10 pushups and run back.

He loves karate because it is something fun he gets to do with his buddy Seth.

He's actually not too bad when he pays attention.

His pushups make me laugh. He moves his bum up and down more then his elbows.

They learn a lot of self-defense tactics and he can take down bigger kids.

I thought the some of the things they learned were pretty cool. He can't stand still in line though waiting for his turn.

Here Seth is pretending to be a bully while the other boy does and arm sweep.

The other boys are just watching the show.

This class only lasted 6 weeks, but another session starts up in November. Yeah!

Abbey's Adventures in Joy School Land

2010-09-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

Some of my friends recently created a "Joy School" for our 2 year olds. Abbey loves it. She has fun playing with her friends. We meet twice a week for 2 hours (I love that - running errands w/out kids is heaven!)

We each take turns hosting and we rotate, letters, numbers, colors, and shapes - but at this age it's mostly learning to play nice and spending time away from mom.

I hosted the week of Abbey's bday so that meant cuppycakes. They were a huge hit (sugar generally is with kids)

They also loved snack time and played really well together. We only have 5 in this group which is very manageable.

Abbey & Maddie are the only girls, but they get a long great. Both are determined, a little head strong, but they make each other laugh and both love to sing.

Jessie hosted this week. I love seeing what the other mom's come up with. Jessie made doggy eared hats with them. She said the kids walked around and laughed at each others hats. I love it!

Jessie also has a dog which is an added bonus for Abbey. She loves Raheem and force feeds him or chases him around with his water dish (poor Raheem, he will learn soon enough)

Jessie even made deviled eggs which Abbey gobbled up. That's my girl - loves food.

This little boy is Seth and he is just sweet and good, Abbey tends to take advantage of his passive nature and is constantly taking his toys or smacking him to remind him she's in charge (poor guy... makes me worry for her future husband)

This is Royce, he's learning to stay clear from her when he has toys that she wants.

Abbey's a funny little monkey - sometimes she like to be a part of the activity, other times she could care less and wants to do her own thing.

Like I said, Snack time is the BEST time!

Jessie has dance time which would probably be my favorite activity even though I've lost all sense of coordination (and balance for that matter).

She's become very independent, choosing her own clothes. I thought kids didn't care about clothes until middle school. Nope. At two years old she fights to wear her swimming suits everyday. Good thing we live in AZ.

This is the best group of kids.

I love to hear them make each other laugh and see them interact. Yeah for Joy School and Yeah for a couple more months of a little bit of alone time for me. Thank you moms for all your hard work - you guys ROCK!!

Happy Birthday Boo-Bah!

2010-09-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

Here is Abbey just a few months old at the Happiest Place on Earth!

We liked this baby - she was a keeper

I think James taught her this pose for pictures

Happy Baby!

kissable lips

oh, my goodness!

Abbey loves dogs and eating dog food even more...

This one is like looking in a mirror

modeling my mom's handiwork.

SHe is a true girl - in love with shoes

hard day shopping at Target

with her best buddies

and her binks

She's a fun little shopping buddy

Her eyes get all smiley like James do.

"gekka-boos"

sleepy girl

bff's

loves yorgurt and making a mess!

Happy Birthday Abburps!

We love you sissa.

It's been a good 2 years - especially this last summer

before and after

2010-09-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

Isn't she a beaute? Oh wait... hold on, the phone's ringing. ... Sorry, that was the 1980's calling to get this dresser back. This picture does not do it justice. It's that pinkish wood tone that for some reason was THE rage (my laundry room cabinets were the same unfortunate color), but it was FREE (thank you Tessa & Tiff) - she had definite potential (and Abbey desperately needed a dresser).

This is how she looks now. Isn't she hot stuff. The best part is that she is solid & study (no pressed wood crap covered in vinyl laminate) - when I was sanding her I was almost tempted to stain her a nice coffee color, but I'm too lazy and tired for all the extra steps.

... and check out her rack (hardware), they were the longest handles I could find that would come close to fitting the existing holes. They were $9 each and I needed 6 of them (ouch... kind pricey) EXCEPT that I bought these at a Ace Hardware that was moving locations so I only paid $3.50 per handle (not too shabby)... I'm waiting to get in Paige's loft bed in 'til I post pics of the girls new cutie cute room, and James room is just about finished. Just a few touch ups and I will post those pics. I'm pretty happy with the over all transformation - stay tuned...

My husband has fallen in lOve again...

2010-09-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

This is my competition - should I be jealous? Mostly it just makes me laugh when he giggles (like a little boy with Legos) about the latest cool new things he has learned... I can't criticize him too much, I do know what it's like to be enamored with a machine.

She is tiny, cute, and still my sidekick after 2 years. She comes in handy with school and all my mischief.

Abbey's big day

2010-09-11T22:06:00.000-07:00

A few of us mom's decided to form a Joy School co-op for our 2 year olds.

This is my baby girl getting ready for her first day. A little camera shy of all the paparazzi

We actually had our first fight over clothes this morning. I got her dressed in a pillow case dress I made and a pair of shorts. She started trying to rip it off, "Get it off! Get it off" - really? Your only 2 and it really matters that much what you wear?

Here she is forgetting all about me as she starts playing with Seth. I don't know how much she learned, but the socialization should do wonders for her - hopefully make her take it a little bit easier on our new baby... and miss her brother & sister a little less while they are at school.

Labor Day - Tombstone Style

2010-09-07T17:57:00.002-07:00

This was the teenager Jen when I met and married into this family.

She was a lot of fun & a lot of crazy all in one. We all loved her.

Luckily, her unlikable phase didn't last very long. Here she is a few years later mom of Sadie and married to JC, she was heaps of fun again.

Here are our 2 babies only like 5 minutes ago (Paige & Sadie).

oops... I blinked. Here are the bff's from last weekend. The span of time from the picture above to this one literally feels like 5 minutes. Where they h... did the time go? and why do I feel so much older?

Crazy Cora and Roy had a lot of fun together. When Abbey would put on this hat she would say "Nee-ha!" (um.. almost, you little city gal)

Crazy Cora is trying to do Roy in. I think she might have shot him in this one.

Crazy Cora, you must have missed. Roy's lookin' a little too lively for being shot at.

Nope. I think she actually hit him in this one. Good job Cora, you might be crazy but you got a decent aim.

Uh-oh! Roy's back with double shooters - watch out!

What? Why me Roy? What did I ever done to ya? I'm merely just takin' a few pictures. Don't shoot Roy.

Roy always gets the last word in. Roy's word is law around these parts, and he claims Cora didn't know no better anyhow.

This is what we did a lot this weekend. Hang out, sleep, watch movies, beeee lazzzzy!

Let's not forget all the room there is outside. All kinds of fun things to see and spend energy on, so we can watch more movies later when we tucker ourselves out.

The kids mosey-ing around the stables.

Oh, look a baby goat.

Who knew they could be so cute or that such cute girls would ever be huggin' and lov'n on baby goats.

James loves anything with "baby" in it's name including tiny little goats.

Paige would snuggle up to anything with fur.

Horses don't have fur and here she is having a panic attack - not a big fan or horse riding (too chicken, just like her mom)

James on the other hand.... loved every minute. Look no hands!

Hey started asking aunt Jen if he could hold the reins or make it run... (he scares this chicken momma) luckily Aunt Jen said let's save that for another time (like maybe 20 years from now).

Cody was giving this troff a work out and needed me to record the evidence.

Nothings better then chocolate & marshmallows. Aunt Jen is the coolest (did I mention she let them eat cake for breakfast?! You can tell she is related to the Candyman aka. Grandpa Ron) I think Abbey & their cousin Reese got a little tipsy from marshmallow overload.

This little sucker was hanging out nearby and only discovered a few hours later. Here he is ready to strike at JC. Little did he know how handy JC is with a shovel. Jen cut off the rattle and gave it to James as a keepsake. You would have thought someone handed James the deed to Disneyland. He took it to school with a few pictures from Tombstone and told his class all about it.

Our last few moments. So much fun. Abbey loved Jester (Jojo's dog) almost as much as Cody. That's one tough little doggie... it survived "Coyotes", coyotes, and Uncle JC (which can be just as rough).

Cody & Jordyn both offered to come and live with me. Cody tried to stow away and Jordyn said she was willing to transfer schools, until I told her she would have to take Paige's place in the 3rd grade with 6 pages of math a night - she quickly changed her mind.

Jordyn waving goodbye from the pole. I saw a huge scorpion near that light our first night there. I think I will keep my annoying aunts, crickets, beetles, and occasional cockroaches - over all the critters they deal with daily. See this post for more of an explanation.

The drive home was amazing... I took the scenic route on the 83 through Whetstone, AZ. The cool part of Tombstone is that it is really laid back, and you can take it easy - but it's minutes away from really beautiful country.

... to Sonoita, AZ - gorgeous country. The kids didn't see any of this their eyes were glazed over with portable DVD players mesmerizing effects.

It actually reminded me a lot of Wyoming (near Yellowstone/Jackson) and Eastern Idaho. So beautiful. I love this amazing desert state.

When I got home this is what I found - Jason working away.

He decided to teach our son how to mow the lawn. It's a good trait and warms my heart just to see it. We're sorry Jason couldn't go with us - maybe next time.

girls & princess

2010-09-07T16:44:00.000-07:00

Abbey loves jumping out of the tub and streaking through the house every chance she can get. I found her in the bathroom brushing her teeth on such an occasion.

Paige spent a Saturday with achievement day girls at the church. They did mini-classes and held a luncheon. Paige came home wearing this cute banner that said "Miss Fabulous" - she had a goodie bag, a rose, and a pretty picture they had taken of her in a crown. What a gorgeous princess!

A few days later we had a princess day. Actually once a week we have boys/girls day. Where the kids get a play date. These girls got all dolled up. They had a blast.

Singing!

Dancing! and having soooo much fun.

Educated definition of a Housewife (aka Mom)

2010-08-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

I'm writing a polished draft of my thesis a friend sent this to me when I asked her to define MODERN DAY HOUSEWIFE:

A Mother’s Job Description

A woman, renewing her driver's license at the Motor Registration office, was asked by the

counter clerk to state her occupation.

She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.

"What I mean is," explained the counter clerk, "do you have a job or are you just a ...?"

"Of course I have a job," snapped the woman. "I'm a Mum."

"We don't list 'Mum' as an occupation, 'housewife' covers it," said the clerk emphatically. I

forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our

own Medicare office.

The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high sounding

title like, "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar."

"What is your occupation?" she probed.

What made me say it? I do not know. The words simply popped out. "I'm a Research

Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations."

The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in mid air and looked up as though she had not heard

right. I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words.

Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written, in bold, black ink on the

official questionnaire.

"Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what you do in your field?"

Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply,

"I have a continuing program of research, (what mother doesn't) in the laboratory and in the

field, (normally I would have said indoors and out). I'm working for my Masters, (first the

Lord and then the whole family) and already have four credits (all daughters). Of course, the

job is one of the most demanding in the humanities, (any mother care to disagree?) and I

often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it). But the job is more challenging than most run-

of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money."

There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood

up, and personally ushered me to the door.

As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my

lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3. Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model, (a 6

month old baby) in the child development program, testing out a new vocal pattern. I felt

I had scored a beat on bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone more

distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another Mum." Motherhood!

What a glorious career! Especially when there's a title on the door!

Does this make grandmothers "Senior Research associates in the field of Child Development

and Human Relations" And great grandmothers "Executive Senior Research Associates?"

I think so!!! I also think it makes Aunts "Associate Research Assistants."

Some Star Wars fun... My kids laugh every time they watch it

2010-08-20T22:23:00.000-07:00

First Day of School

2010-08-11T21:43:00.000-07:00

Paige and James started school today. Paige began 3rd and James 1st. They were both so excited.

James sits at a desk surrounded by 3 girls - his teacher will soon learn how much he loves and teases girls.

A Successful first day - happy and smiling

James, Paige (and friend Seth) - good times. Abbey and I had a great day. I think we will have a few good months together (well, until Dec 11th or so when her title as baby will be usurped by "Baby Elle" (Ellenore Kathryn), I hope they will be bff's like Kelly & I have been.

Paige's 3 favorite poses

2010-06-28T10:21:00.001-07:00

Beautiful Paigey Girl

2010-06-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

For Paige's baptism, we wanted to have some pictures done to make up into invitations and to document this cool event in Paige's life. I had my friend (and favorite stylist) Chelsea come over and do her hair for me.

Chelsea a gifted stylist and made an already gorgeous girl... look stunning.

My friend Jenna from Jameson photography came and took all the pictures for us. She did an amazing job.

This amazing dress was made by my mom.

She took this dress (my old wedding dress) - I ripped it apart and shipped it to Utah. She drew a few sketches and came up with this gorgeous dress.

It fits her perfectly!

Doesn't her hair look amazing? People pay good money and spend hours in the salon for that kind of coloring.

I love the temple grounds too - aren't they amazing?

It's like a storybook setting for a beautiful princess.

I love all the shots she took that weren't straight on, but show her personality.

look at those gorgeous eyes.

She is wearing the necklace and bracelet that Jason gave me for our wedding day.

The earrings she made. They are buttons that we clipped the shanks off of and glued clip-ons too.

There was a wedding party and family that Jenna had to maneuver around. Paige is actually strategically placed to block out a little family.

I can't believe my baby is almost 8! Time flies when your having fun!

We love dogs (or just dog food)... and snake, oh my

2010-06-03T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Abbey... whatcha doin? (notice she is covered in mud from spending time in my back yard - if there is dirt/mud her tracking device goes off full force)

ummm... don't mind me mom, I got a hankerin' for a little puppy chow.

Yep. That hits the spot every time. It tastes so much better on your hands and knees.

Piper's looking at me like, "So can I have Abbey's food since she's eating mine?" Keep in mind that usually Abbey will shut the laundry room door first so I won't bug her or make her stop eating dog food.

Paige would gladly trade almost anything for a puppy.

If she had her way she would fill up our entire back yard with nothing but pups.

ooohhh... how did my daughters turn out to be such animal lovers?

Oh, maybe it is their dad fault, this is his new pet, "Sam Boba-fett Buchanan" the ball python snake. It's just a small thing, maybe 2 feet long. We watched it eat it's first mouse the other day, it was disturbing and so mesmerizing at the same time.

Mother's Day reflections

2010-05-10T00:07:00.000-07:00

I don't think Mother's Day is really for moms. I think it's for everyone else. Its a day to reflect on how you got to where you are and the beautiful women that helped get you there and influence your life for good. A day for mom's would be quiet, peaceful, serene, relaxing - none of those words describe my experience as a mother or any mother's day I can remember as a child or otherwise, and that's okay. I enjoy the chaos, craziness, and noise - it's my life and reminds me that I have children in my life and that I am needed. I'm fine for them to have a day to celebrate the women in their life, as I celebrate the amazing women in my life.

Jason took me to Bennihana's Saturday night and a movie (after cleaning the house on Saturday morning with the kids - something EVERY mother loves). We had a great time. I love being with him. He gets me and we have a lot of fun together. While we were out Paige made me this banner and hung it in the hallway facing my room. She is the best kid ever. It says "Happy Mother's Day. I Love You. I (heart) U. (eye) (heart) u."

This is my 'mother's day haul' (as I call it) all the goodies the kids make at school and church. The left hand side is a letter from James that says, "You got me a Lego Bat man shrt. I love You mom. Love, James"and Paige's blue card says, "To Best Mom ever!! Dear Mom, Happy Mothers Day. I Love You. Love, Paige, Abbey, James" - the small guy to the right is James ninja... in the words of Maria, these are a few of my favorite things.

This was the gift Jason took the kids to get me. I've been obsessed lately with cooking competitions (shows like 'Chopped') and I've wanted to learn more about techniques, and preparation instead of just recipes. This book is a wealth of information. Jason got me a gift card to put towards cooking classes. I would like to learn chutting skills, and different food techniques to improve my overall cooking skills. I'm so excited by this. There are a few schools in Scottsdale that offer cooking classes for date nights, or single nights - how much fun would that be to grab a couple friends and go take a cooking class or two.

This is the best part of being a mom. Look at how well they clean up.

She almost looks angelic.

He's just a straight up goof and keeps us laughing.

This little girl (although very dramatic at times) is amazing and makes me feel like I'm doing something right.

Today in RS, they read this story by Erma Bombeck written in 1993;

For the first four or five years after I had children, I considered motherhood a temporary condition-not a calling. It was a time of my life set aside for exhaustion and long hours. It would pass. Then one afternoon with three kids in tow, I came out of the supermarket pushing a cart (with four wheels that went in opposite directions) when my toddler son got away from me.

Just outside the door, he ran toward a machine holding bubble gum in a glass dome. In a voice that shattered glass, he shouted, "Gimme! Gimme!" I told him I would gimmie him what-for if he didn't stop shouting and get in the car. As I physically tried to pry his body from around the bubble gum machine, he pulled the entire thing over. Glass and balls of bubble gum went all over the parking lot. We had now attracted a crowd. Donna Reed would have brushed away his tears and granted him absolution on the spot. I wasn't Donna Reed. I told him he would never see another cartoon as long as he lived, and if he didn't control his temper he was going to be making license plates for the state. He tried to stifle his sobs as he looked around at the staring crowd. Then he did something that I was to remember the rest of my life. In his helpless quest for comfort, he turned to the only one he trusted his emotions with-me. He threw his arms around my knees and held on for dear life. I had humiliated him, chastised him and berated him, but I was still all he had. That single incident defined my role. I was a major force in this child's life. Sometimes we forget how important stability is to a child. I've always told mine, "The easiest part of being a mother is giving birth. The hardest part is showing up for it each day."

This is traditionally the day when children give something back to their mothers for all the spit they produced to wash dirty faces, all the old gum their mothers held in their hands, all the noses and fannies that were wiped, and all the bloody knees that were " made well" with a kiss. This is the day mothers are rewarded for washing all those sheets in the middle of the night, driving kids to school when they missed the bus and enduring all the football games in the rain. It's appreciation day for making them finish something, not believing them when they said, "I hate you," and for sharing their good times and their bad times. Their cards probably won't reflect it, but what they are trying to say is "Thank you for showing up."

He's part of the reason I keep showing up. Jason makes being a mom easier and he makes me want to try harder and be the best mom I can - this isn't a me or you thing, it is a team effort and I couldn't do it without him.

We went over to my in-laws for dinner. Ron, my father in law, went over the top with an incredible spread. We all needed forklifts to get up from the table... so good.

My kids actually surprised me and ate really well. Then they burned off most of what they ate swimming and running around like crazy escaped monkeys. The adults laid around like beached whales watching TV and trying not to use too much energy.

This was a delightful unexpected gift. Annette gave me this set of china. It's from the 1930's and has this amazing gold filigree around the edges of the plate.

She was told that this style of dishes was used in the movie "My Man Godfrey" (1936) in the kitchen scene. I haven't watched it yet, but they are rather pretty. What a nice day. What a nice, nice day.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Easter Time

2010-04-13T22:14:00.001-07:00

I think I love holidays so much because my husband makes this kind of thing fun!

He bought the kids baskets for a big lunch and Easter egg hunt with all his family and cousins.

There was a really nice spread. Lots of yummy food.

They were actually having a burping contest that I think James was winning (or trying to at least) with Sadie in a close second.

Abbey playing in the ice that was dumped out after the party.

She loved walking through it and eating it (grass, dirt, and all)

The swim party after the picnic was a big success.

Grandma Nette bought all the grandkids new swimming suits.

Cody and Chase hanging out by the pool.

My darling daughter - turned into a bathing beauty.

Macey, Paige, Sadie, Jordyn & James playing crazy kid games.

Can you tell who is orchestrating this game?

Paige loved her suit, and was glad Grandma Nette bought her the right one (one that covered her tummy) - she is such a good girl.

Once Abbey got in the pool it was almost impossible to get her out.

That's one happy baby, trust me - just remove the binki and you'd see a smile.

Jordyn, Paige, and Sadie trying to splash as much as Abbey.

hmmmmm... nummy hot dogs.

The Easter bunny at our house is the coolest! He not only did an Easter egg hunt, but he also had a scavenger hunt. There were these tiny eggs that would say "go look under Paige's bed" or "go look in the linen closet" where they found cool stuff that couldn't fit in Easter baskets.

Abbey got a broom. She was happy.

James got a huge Dragon kite.

They look a lot alike.

For Easter lunch we headed over to Jason's grandparents house in Sun City. They have the best porch, it looks out over a golf course and they have this huge orange tree that the kids disappear into. Jason's grandma always buys the cutest outfits for all the grandkids.

For FHE the next night - Jason flew kites with the kids.

Jason and James training their dragon kite.

Nice picture huh.

I think Jason had as much fun as the kids.

Paige had a huge butterfly kite that seemed to spend a lot of time on the ground.

Easter luncheon and egg hunt

2010-04-13T21:40:00.000-07:00

My cool friend Abbey decided to plan this great luncheon for Easter.

Abbey didn't care much for the eggs after she found a bouncy ball.

Here's the mastermind behind the fun time.

Abbey finally sits down for a minute to eat a little lunch.

That's my girl - only happy when she's at her dirtiest!

The mop head is in LOVE (with Dora) and ice cream

2010-04-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

This is my gorgeous girl in the morning when she first wakes up.

This is her favorite thing to do when she first wakes up. She is obsessed with Dora. When it starts she does a crazy little dance and says "oh man."

Can't get her attention at all. I'm lucky if I can get her to eat.

Please mom, I really can't be bothered right now.

We got to babysit my friends little boy, Gavin. We stopped for baby ice cream cones at McDonalds.

Gavin and his ice cream cone.

And here is Abbey with Gavin's ice cream cone. Notice the drips all down the arm. Such good stuff!!

And this is Abbey's favorite place at night... a baba, a binki, and my bed (oh yeah and watching Dora).

While the boys are away... the girls will play

2010-04-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

Abbey's happy that Dad and James were gone on "Fathers and Sons" campout... oh yeah and they took our car, so it was Girls night in.

Abbey gets her tunes goin'

Paige decides on our menu.

She makes her first smoothie solo. I'm proud of my girl.

We also made beignets, let's just say - we're looking forward to trying that one again with better success.

We invited some friends over and watched a movie together. It was so much fun.

Tombstone slide show

2010-03-21T23:45:00.001-07:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Spring Break in Tombstone, AZ

2010-03-21T21:32:00.002-07:00

This year for Spring Break we visited our cousins in Tombstone, AZ. Jason's sister and her husband moved in January and we were excited to see their new place.

Abbey just chill'n while I got everything ready... no don't get up. I love packing for myself and 3 kids for 3 days. We left Jason at home. Mom and kids road trip.

After almost 4 hours of driving - we get there and my kids gravitate towards the computer? What the?

We did upload some music for Sadie. Paige has been obsessed with Les Miserables since Westwood HS put it on (we had a mommy/daughter date), it was so cute to hear her explain the story to Sadie as we listened to the music.

Cody was happy to see us.

Abbey and her amused looks - she kills me.

Jordyn couldn't get enough of Abbey and followed her around everywhere. She got Abbey to follow her once by getting on all fours and pretending she was a dog.

but we all know the truth... she is a doll!

We went into Sierra Vista to swim with the kids (hottie alert - there is a military base nearby, which explains all the eye candy). The kids had fun on the playground while we waited for the swimming pool to open.

Notice James is not in this picture. After the merry-go-round. He laid on the ground. Threw up and then said, "I feel a lot better mom" and was ready to go.

The pool was pretty cool. Every 15 minutes or so they turned on waves and you would thrash about for a few minutes in the waves and then it would return back to a regular swimming pool.

Abbey was giddy, tired, and hysterical, but had so much fun.

Here she is (purpled lips) ready to be done. I love this swimming suit it was Paige's when she was a baby.

James loved the waves... and surprise - the hot tub (which was huge!!)

Abbey and Paige had fun running around Jen's great yard. Abbey loves to be outside.

Cody giving me a dirty look after he told me not to take a picture of him.

Jordyn and her baby "Jester"

Sadie and Paige had an ongoing fued over wether this guitar was Sadie's or Cody's (not sure it was ever settled)...

James got a visit from Tom the Toothfairy. I couldn't believe he found us all the way in Tombstone and I reminded James that Tom only gives Lego Batman video games when you loose your first tooth naturally (not when it gets knocked out by your sister, then yanked by the dentist)... he was happy with gum and a few bucks.

Abbey was in love with Jester and followed it everywhere, saying "goggie. goggie. goggie."

Jen's yard is sort of fenced in which was nice to just let my baby wander and not have too worry about her too much getting out with the horses.

They have such a lovely wrap around porch.

It's huge, shady, and cool. Perfect for summer nights - we'll definitely be making more trips out their way if they will have us.

We drove into Bisbee, AZ - it's just a few minutes down the road. It is the cutest little town. It looks a lot like San Francisco.

Lots of curvy roads, buildings close together, a lot of homes built on hills only accessible by stairs. Jen and I spent a lot ot time pondering how one gets furniture, vacuum cleaner, even groceries up all those steps without passing out. We were quite tempted to go knock and ask, but that would mean walking up steps... no thanks!

Bisbee doesn't have a lot of kids. It has a new age, artist, Berkeley vibe to it and I think we might have been the only people with kids in the town. A few store owners gasped when they saw 6 small children walk in and Jen and I would gasp when our kids tried touching things.

Abbey was a trooper, but not too thrilled with this train.

I would definitely love to spend a night or two with Jason. Bisbee has a rich history I couldn't help but looking up to find out more about it.

Kids - such a rareity. I'm surprised the cranky old tourists weren't taking pictures of these rare subjects. Even the cool little toy store. I was like, "Don't touch. Don't touch"

This fence was fun and kind of hippy. Paige said it brainwashed her (I think she meant hypnotized her) there were lots of cool spinning wheels.

We ended up in a city park (I think this actually used to be a cemetery) - but Sadie and Paige LOVED the stage and acoustics. We were serenaded by church, kid, Les Mis, and even a few Christmas songs. Abbey was obsessed with a basketball game and made a bee line to any stray ball.

We ended our trip with some delicious ice cream.

Whenever I couldn't find Paige - I would look for Jester first, yep... there's Paige.

I love that Jordyn and James are peas in a pod and do really well together.

Where's Jester?... oh right with Paige. I should have known.

... more puppy love'n.

and again with her two favorite babies. Jester and Abbey who was almost as obsessed with that dog as Paige.

The ranch they live on is huge and although it feels secluded, it's 5 minutes from town. And 20 minutes from Target. A girl can survive in those kind of conditions.

My girls are just so cute.

Here are the kids before we left. James was mad, he wanted to stay a few more days.

(notice no James in this picture as well)...

Cody tried to get in my car twice as we were leaving. Who can say no to that face?

This is a view of their ranch house as we were leaving. They really have a great spread.

Surprisingly we didn't make it to downtown Tombstone - we will save that for next time.

It sure is beautiful country!

Disneyland March 2nd-7th

2010-03-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

It had been too long. We were sorely missed by all our friends, the cast members, and characters at Disneyland. There was weeping at our long awaited return (mostly by me) as we were greeted with "Welcome to the Happiest Place on Earth"

I made my kids some fun Disney wear. Paige has out grown dress ups but loves dressing up like her baby. So I made these skirts and shirts for the girls and James wanted to be apart of the fun. I talk more about the construction and give links for the templates on my sewing blog here.

Abbey walking with her daddy to the park. We stayed at the Marriott Residence Inn Maingate - so we were about a block away (plus free breakfast every morning is a definite bonus!).

James's moment of triumph! Finally tall enough to ride the Indianan Jones ride - he's only been talking about it for 2 years now.

He was very apprehensive of the long dark tunnels and Paige giving him an ear full and more.

Abbey met the most characters. We were always in the right place at the right time. This is Princess Tiana from the Princess and the Frog movie in New Orleans Square. She was so sweet with Abbey.

We walked out of the diaper changing place right into Mary Poppins and Burt. Abbey didn't care for Bert at all because he kept trying to take her binki out of her mouth. She had it set to suction grip.

BFF's - Paige and Grandma Nette

I love going on trips with Jason's parents. They are so patient with my kids and are happy to watch the kids for awhile here and there so we can have a little break. Plus they get our dorky sense of humor.

California Adventure has a lot of changes going on. About 1/3 of the park was under construction for the Little Mermaid ride, The Cars Land, and the Water Show opening later this year and next.

James was chosen for Jedi training and that boy was as serious as a heart attack. He got to defeat Vadar and has been having Jedi dreams and talking about "the force" ever since.

Meeting the mouse.

We went on Toy Story Midway Mania ride about 10 times. Anytime we got even close someone would jump in line. We couldn't get enough of it. Probably the best family ride in all of Cali Ad.

Paige and James promised Jason over a year ago to go on the Tower of Terror. They were both hesitant, but did it. What's more shocking was Paige going on the Maliboomer. She chickened out the first time and after I promised her 2 pins (for her new love, pin trading) she got right in line and loved it.

The carosel is always a classic and rarely a line... actually we had hardly any wait times, even on the weekends, the rain and overcast skies kept people away.

These three are super buggy, this is grandpa's favorite movie.

a girl, a bink, and the man that loves them.

Abbey loved the petting zoo - getting tight down in the muck and the mire to be close to them.

Best part of the day - not fighting with my kids to get them to bed. We came back to the hotel between 7-8pm and they crashed every night.

Autopia junkies. Abbey really does not look amused. James on the other hand is THE WILDEST RIDE IN THE WILDERNESS!

We went to La Brea cafe one night for dinner and little Cinderella became obsessed with this broom. She walked all over and would scream when it got caught on chair legs.

Two little sissies - love'n Disneyland.

James and mommy on the buzz light year ride - yahooo! It was a pretty cool week.

Disneyland Slide Show

2010-03-21T20:04:00.001-07:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

because I like to sew...

2010-03-10T22:37:00.000-07:00

I'm giving away these two child size smocks that I made - just go here to enter for the cakes/presents one. Don't enter on this site, I'm hosting it through my sewing blog.. There are no restrictions so you can enter as many times as you like.

And click HERE to enter for this yellow and black one. Both of these are child size 2T/3T. In a week I draw a random number for each and mail it out to you. I hope you win.

my baby girl

2010-02-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

This is what I contend with each morning as I do my dishes. Most days she gets in the way or unloads as fast as I can reload, but on occasion she can actually be helpful. Oh, how I love this little mop head.

bumps on the road of life

2010-01-06T12:40:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I unfortunately suffered a miscarriage. It was a rough experience, fortunately I was at the hospital and had my best friend (Jason) with me and it was bearable.

For the most part I am doing fine. I feel better everyday physically. I think it's the emotional side that hurts the most and holds you back. My body needed little medication to ease the pain, but I wish I could take a couple Tylenol to make this emotional roller coaster feel more like a nice calm boat ride. There's really not a lot to be done. Your filled with hormones and then dealing with any loss is tough. I cried for 3 days straight and I felt a lot better or maybe my eyes were just too swollen to keep up at that pace.

I still get a little sad when I see the ultrasound pictures we had at 7 weeks, we heard it's heart beat and I was optimistic that despite it measuring small, and being put on a medication (progesterone) that made me nauseous, emotional, irritable, and sleepy, and a feeling of dread - things would work out. I like having summer babies and this one would have worked out great. Sometimes my plan is not the one that counts.

The baby stopped growing for whatever reason at 7 weeks 5 days. And at 12 weeks my body knew it was done with this pregnancy. I don't really think I was ready to accept it until we were at the hospital and I felt my water break for the first time ever (my kids all took their own sweet time coming out - aka induced) luckily Jason was there to hold me up and help me through the next 8 hrs. I guess I thought it wouldn't be so rough since I've had 2 previous miscarriage, but I had a D&C with both of those. They knock you out and you wake up and go on with life. I was coherent through this entire process and it was amazingly horrific.

It's over with now and I'm glad to be done. It's not a pleasant experience, but when you pray for trials to be humbled but you put restrictions on your trials (please help me to be humble and teachable - but nothing to do with my kids, or Jason, or Jason's job, etc.) You kind of limit the playing field and you have to keep in mind you were asking for the trial - 'you get what you get, and you don't throw a fit' (my kids hate that saying) - but standing on this side of the trial, I know it had a purpose and I know I will understand it better in time.

In the mean time, I feel the effects of everyones prayers. I feel a calming spirit and mostly just feel incredibly grateful for my children. I look at Abbey's mischievous grin and she just makes me laugh. I guess she is the prescription I need right now. Jason is a rock and I couldn't have gone through this without him. He is the breathe of my life.

Anyway, Thanks to everyone who have brought me food, treats, sent me emails, txt, phone calls. Your kind words and sincerity have been enveloping and made this easier to deal with. I am surrounded by amazing family, friends, ward members, and genuinely good hearted people.

Everyone has been so gracious and sincere. Thank you. Everything happens for a reason we are still planning to add to our family. Well, hell with a husband as hot as Jason - it's not hard to see why.

Dear Santa from Paige & James

2009-12-24T21:52:00.002-07:00

This was Paige's letter to Santa this year. She had a tall order, and keep in mind this is one of several versions (some as early as September). I think next year we might limit her to the top 3 of her endless lists.

James, on the other hand, just wants a dinosaur, easy peasy - this is one boy who won't be disappointed on Christmas morning.

2009-12-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent this to me, you've probably read it by now, but if not... I thought the moms out there would like to know they are not alone or at least have a good laugh - Maren

p.s. I have video to upload but my parents internet is about as fast as the pony express.

Dear Santa,
I've been a good mom all year. I've fed, cleaned and cuddled my children on
demand, visited their doctor's office more than my doctor, sold sixty-two cases
of candy bars to raise money to plant a shade tree on the school playground I
was hoping you could spread my list out over several Christmases, since I had to
write this letter with my son's red crayon, on the back of a receipt in the
laundry room between cycles, and who knows when I'll find anymore free time in
the next 18 years.

Here are my Christmas wishes:
I'd like a pair of legs that don't ache (in any color, except purple, which I
already have) and arms that don't hurt or flap in the breeze; but are strong
enough to pull my screaming child out of the candy aisle in the grocery store.
I'd also like a waist, since I lost mine somewhere in the seventh month of my
last pregnancy. If you're hauling big ticket items this year I'd like
fingerprint resistant windows and a radio that only plays adult music; a
television that doesn't broadcast any programs containing talking animals; and a
refrigerator with a secret compartment behind the crisper where I can hide to
talk on the phone.

On the practical side, I could use a talking doll that says, "Yes, Mommy" to
boost my parental confidence, along with two kids who don't fight and three
pairs of jeans that will zip all the way up without the use of power tools.

I could also use a recording of Tibetan monks chanting "Don't eat in the
living room" and "Take your hands off your brother/sister," because my voice
seems to be just out of my children's hearing range and can only be heard by the
dog.

If it's too late to find any of these products, I'd settle for enough time to
brus h my teeth and comb my hair in the same morning, or the luxury of eating
food warmer than room temperature without it being served in a Styrofoam
container.

If you don't mind, I could also use a few Christmas miracles to brighten the
holiday season. Would it be too much trouble to declare ketchup a vegetable? It
will clear my conscience immensely. It would be helpful if you could coerce my
children to help around the house without demanding payment as if they were the
bosses of an organized crime family.

Well, Santa, the buzzer on the dryer is ringing and my son saw my feet under
the laundry room door. I think he wants his crayon back. Have a safe trip and
remember to leave your wet boots by the door and come in and dry off so you
don't catch cold.

Help yourself to cookies on the table but don't eat too many or leave crumbs
on the carpet.

Yours Always,
MOM

P.S. One more thing...you can cancel all my requests if you can keep my
children healthy, safe, and young enough to believe in Santa.

2009 Christmas Card attempts

2009-12-11T13:49:00.002-07:00

The final chapter of the Buchanan saga

2009-12-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

It's official - we heard the heartbeat on Wednesday - this is the cause of my nauseated state of being 24/7. There is actually a little peanut causing all this havoc on my body. Everything seems to be going really well. My progesterone levels were low so they put me on a supplement and I'm trying to live with the side effects while Jason claims there are no big changes (I always break out crying, right? - ha, ha, ha)

Actually, it does have a slew of side effects, but I seem to be affected by 3: sleepiness, irritability, and anxiety. Serious anxiety over the littlest dumbest things (makes me crazy) and it sucks that my one good quality (patience) is in short supply. Yesterday during preschool my kids were looking at me like 'why does she think she has to bribe us for every little thing?' - please, please, please put your shoes on, I will give you an m&m - come on just help pick up, I will give you and m&m - poor things. Luckily it will just be 'til I reach 13 weeks and the placenta can kick in and do it's job.

So mark you calendars - the official due date is JULY 15th (but keep in mind NONE of my kids came on time... ) so let's really plan for JULY 22nd, a week late is about right on for my babies.

p.s. and yes this one will be a surprise as well... we will probably let our kids name it (after the first couple we lost interest). Paige has already picked out Gavin for a boy and she said Lilly for a girl which is cute, but Jason really liked Eleanor, (however you spell it - Elenore, Elanore) when we were trying to name Paige and I'm coming around. We could always call her Elle or Elli.

We are having a sale at my SSC blog

2009-11-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

school pictures Nov 2009

2009-11-06T00:25:00.000-07:00

He's such a little rogue.

I LOVE this picture - she wanted to wear her tap shoes and I love how her toes are pointed.

I never get over how long this baby's hair is.

This is my favorite one of James, it's genuine and sweet, but you can still see the mischief in his eyes.

This girl just gets prettier every year. She is everything I always wanted to be, but never was.

This is my favorite of Abbey. She looks a little pouty, I don't know why she always gets what she wants.

He is either bare foot or a flipflop boy, he takes after me - our feet can't breathe in shoes.

She didn't want her hair flat ironed but obliged me this once. I love it when she poses.

This baby is just pure joy. She has been a blessing to this family, as cheesy as that sounds - she brings out the best in us and we do everything we can to make her smile.

The lighting & coloring is not typical in this picture. It reminds me of a picture from my moms yearbook in the 70's all love child and peace.

No. I think this one is my favorite of Abbey. Sometimes she just gives you these looks like she is not amused and will not grant you a smile despite how much you make a fool of yourself. I know I'm a lucky mommy, always making a fool of myself...

These were all taken by my good friend Jenna from Jameson photos.

responsible citizen

2009-11-04T13:53:00.000-07:00

I had to share this clip. Abbey & I had a similar moment yesterday after leaving Fresh & Easy. Abbey had my keys in her hand and I returned my shopping cart congratulating myself on what a responsible citizen I was, only to star cursing a moment later as I realized I had closed the drivers side door. Luckily before I hit "crazy parent running with a garbage can" mode I heard a click (Abbey was still playing with the keys) and the nightmare ended before anyone "could start judging me" (great line) - This show is pretty funny. It reminds me of my own crazy family.

Pumpkin Contest

2009-10-31T23:09:00.000-07:00

The PTO at my kids elementary school sponsors a pumpkin contest every year. The kids were excited to be a part of it this year. Jason helped James come up with a bloody skull.

I made the skirt/dress for Paige's Pumpkin Leia. I also helped with the hair (my fingers have all the burns from hot glue to prove it). It turned out great and she won 2nd place for K-3rd grade in the "Cartoon Look Alike" category. I'm so proud of my little blooming crafter in the making.

cute kids (aka sneak peek)

2009-10-24T23:09:00.000-07:00

In my last post - I know I went on and on about my friend Jenna who took pictures for my class. Well, I had her come back and take school pictures of my kids. These are a few she sent me early so I could do a project for church. Okay, so... technically Abbey is more of a mascot then a student in preschool, but Jenna obliged me... Look what she was able to capture.

I know what your thinking, "yeah. Maren we know she was a hospital mix up, this is further evidence that your real child is being raised in a trailer court in Apache Junction."

My life long bff's have been my sisters, I love that these two adore each other despite their age difference they are amazed and delighted by each other. If you need an amazing photographer, I got you covered, just give me a call and I'll hook you up.

*I'll be posting more in the next few weeks. If you want me to email these to you let me know, this is a downgraded format so it uploaded quickly, printing quality might not be that great. I will email you a great copy if you want to print them out.

picture day

2009-10-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

I jut had to share this picture. This year for my preschool we decided to do school pictures and Jameson Photos came to my house to do the photo shoot. The pictures turned out amazing. This group picture was taken in my back yard, really. She is fantastic. You can click HERE to see more preschool pictures or JAMESON PHOTOS to go to her site and check her out. She i stopping by later to take James & Paige's school pictures. I might just have to do this every year!

Abbey's a year and its flow by

2009-09-29T23:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is already one years old. It's amazing how when you get older time speeds up and you barely feel like your catching your breath and your baby isn't so tiny anymore.

I've enjoyed Abbey's babyhood. She is a funny little parrot. I feel out of all my kids she has my sense of humor (or maybe she is just too little to think I'm a dork, yet)

My kids are so proud of her. Just this last weekend she started crawling like a "real baby" (on all fours) - but she is much faster at her "cockroach crawl" and resorts to that more often. She also spins 360' on her hiney. It's funny to watch, and she thinks the world of Paige & James.

SHe lights up whenever Paige comes around and Paige is the first to try and make her happy. She thinks James is hilarious with his loud ways and is constantly laughing at him which just eggs him on even more.

She is super independent. She gave up baby food at 2 teeth and 9 months. She loves pb&j sandwiches, nana's (banana) and "Pipa" (our dog). She also says "Hi mama" and "hut ho hut ho hut ho" when she purposely drops something. I sing a couple songs that my dad sang to me as a kid. "Night, night Abbers. Night night Abbers. Night night Abbers, it's time to go to .... (I pull her binki out of her mouth and most times she will say) "beh"... (bed), Also "Abba-daba-daba said the monkey to the moon" and she will smile cuz she knows it's her song. She has been a blessing and a joy to our lives and has made this last year amazing. We love you Aburps.

a conversation

2009-09-29T22:59:00.000-07:00

"Mom, I already know what you are going to say tonight when you tuck me in."

"Oh Yeah, Paige, and what is that?"

"That I need to clean my room tomorrow. I already know, so you don't have to say anything."

"Okay."

(That's my girl!)

giveaway on the SSC site

2009-09-09T22:46:00.003-07:00

I am hosting a giveaway on my other blog, The Secret Stitch Club. It is a double sided apron made by me. Follow this link to enter (Sorry entries on this site won't count)

because she is just so darn cute

2009-09-02T11:15:00.005-07:00

It's been awhile since I've sent out an "Abbey post" - and since you all would rather look at her then the rest of us I thought I would oblige.

This is Abbey and the baby who usurped her throne as "Youngest grandchild in the Byrnes family" (baby Crue is Megan & Dyson's first and is almost a month old, in this pisture it was just a couple days)

She gets a kick out of looking at herself in the mirror. This night she kept laughing and prattling on to the baby in the mirror.

When her hair looks like this I always think of Gene Wilder's Willie Wonka. Her hair is crazy long for a year old and hard to find her sometimes in the morning when she wakes up and it is ALL in her face.

This is Abbey after having been "babysat" by Paige & James. I just asked them to keep an eye on her while they were playing on the computer. In actuality they kept both their eyes on the computer and let her play with a ball point pen.

This one is a rarity (Abbey minus the binki)... and she has 2 adorable little teeth on the bottom.

SInce growing her 2 teeth she no longer can stand baby food and eats every meal like she has a full set of chompers.

This is more like it. One thing I love about her is how she always crosses her ankles. She is very lady like even if she squawks to see us come running (no wonder she only barely started crawling)

This is the normal state of her hair and binki in mouth she is happy.

beware of pride... seriously

2009-08-16T15:38:00.006-07:00

This delayed entry comes with a price, literally. I'm cautioning all the 3 people who read this blog to BEWARE of PRIDE... or in our case, a prideful checking account.

Don't let your "ca" (checking account) start bragging around the bank to all the other checking accounts about how you might actually be catching up on all your bills.

Don't let "ca" taunt others that you've started saving for a family trip to Disneyland in the fall.

Don't even hint to "ca" that your husband's on-call and countless weekend hours, where you get to play single mom at church or at family activities, might actually start helping you pay back your student loans.

And most importantly (aka - the kiss of death) Please don't let "ca" overhear you talking about the possibility of using your tax returns to buy a humble little tent/trailer, or he will blog about it and before you know it... bursting with pride, your haughty bank account will be called to repentance, forced to be humble through circumstance and you can kiss any financial stability goodbye.

This might happen - beware of free range cows on the prowl:

or this (your diehard VW giving up the ghost after a long hearty 9 years of service and 182,000 miles of life, and countless oil leaks). Unfortunately the repairs exceed the monetary value of the car. So we must bid "Snow White" (named by Paige) goodbye and hope that she will enjoy a productive life in the wrecking yard (it's like being an organ donor for other cars, good girl!)

then there is always the possibility of having an unfixable gas leak (according to 4 repairmen and 2 city gas inspectors) and having to replace this...

and lastly getting Jason's motorcycle back on the road after sitting for a year and a half, took a bite out of "ca's" attitude problem.

SO if your wondering how you can donate to the Buchanan's Beware of Checking Account Pride - we are accepting donations in the most lucrative median posible, PRAYER.

giveaway on the SSC site

2009-06-29T23:54:00.004-07:00

Yeah!! I just joined the Secret Stitch Etsy site. I made 3 bath aprons, if your wondering what that is - basically an apparatus to keep you dry while your kids get clean & then use it to dry them off once they finish. You can see them if you look to the right (red, blue, and cream towelish looking aprons) aren't they pretty? Okay so to celebrate I'm giving away this kids apron that I made on the SSC site and Christie is giving away a lime colored apron she made adult sized. You can't enter the giveaway here - You have to go to the SSC page and leave a comment. I hope you win!!

kids lovin' on dad

2009-06-21T23:24:00.002-07:00

to my first bff

2009-06-21T23:02:00.004-07:00

I remember the first time Paige told me I was her best friend. She was about 2 years old and it melted my heart. I thought to myself, I am so lucky to be her first bff. I know it won't last and she will move on, but for this moment I will love every minute of it.

So, I thought I would take a moment to recognize my first bff, my dad. He will always be my hero no matter how old I get. His spirit has never aged (it still thinks it's 20-ish) while his body is looking more 60-ish. I am proud of the man he is and hope that my son will turn out just as great (this picture was taken on my 1st birthday, my dad was 34).

Happy Jason Day

2009-06-21T22:01:00.003-07:00

This was my last pday in the mission field. Jason had already been home for 4 months. He was back touring with his family. My father-in-law asked me to come home and date his son while we were at the Colleseo. Good times... if they only knew what the next 10 years would bring them, ha, ha, ha)
This was Jason and I in the mission field (I apologize for the irreverence of the picture - what do you do when your twenty something in a foreign country and living like nuns - you get your kicks where you can)
This was the twenty year old I fell for ... what a smokin hot guy, even if he was a missionary.

This is Jason in our first apartment getting ready to move to AZ.

My crazy, wonderful, amazing trophy husband. I love him more and more as time goes by and I'm constantly reminding myself just how good I have it with him. Happy Father's Day to a guy who makes me laugh daily (and never reads this blog - so he never knows how "crazy" I am for him) Sei Grande!

Barbacoa Pork & Cilantro Rice

2009-06-21T21:16:00.005-07:00

I've made this a few times now and every time it gets rave reviews. I think it's supposed to be true to Cafe Rio, but only having been there a few times I can not tell you truthfully... regardless it's mighty tasty (I got this recipe & pictures from Heidikins) - I've made this two different ways... a) super-spicy-so-you-need-a-sour-cream-chaser-to-wash-it-down-with AND b) yummy-with-a-pleasant-kick-to-it-so-your-kids-and-overly-picky-brother-in-law-will-love-it. I prefer it the second way.

Barbacoa Pork (Cafe Rio style)

4 to 8 pound pork loin or roast

21 oz. Dr. Pepper

1 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup white sugar

3 cloves of garlic, minced

7 oz. can chipotle chiles in adobe sauce

6 oz. red taco sauce (medium or mild)

1 tsp. dry mustard

1 tsp. cumin

Directions for pork: Cut your pork in about 4 or 5 large chunks. Fill the crock pot half way with water. Cook in the crock pot on low for 10 to 12 hours. After your pork is nice and tender, drain the water from it. Add the sauce, put the pork back in the crock pot for 4 to 6 hours. It will literally fall apart when you are ready to serve it.

directions for the sauce: Let the brown & white sugars dissolve in a bowl with the Dr. Pepper. Add the garlic, taco sauce, dry mustard, and cumin. IF WANT IT YUMMY WITH A LITTLE KICK: put the entire can of chipotle adobe sauce in with the Dr. Pepper mixture. Then either strain it as you pour it onto the pork or scoop out the huge chiles. IF YOU WANT IT KICKIN' SPICY: Leave the chilies in while you cook it for the last 4 to 6 hours and scoop them out when your ready to serve it.

Below is the recipe for the cilantro rice. If you want the recipe for the Cafe Rio Tomatillo dressing or a recipe for pico de gallo click here.

Cilantro Rice (Cafe Rio style)

3 cups water

4 tsp chicken bullion

1 tsp cumin

4 cloves of garlic

1/2 of a yellow onion

1/2 bunch of cilantro

1 can (4oz.) green chilles

3/4 tsp salt

1 Tbs. butter

3 cups Jasmine rice (or reg. rice - not 5 minute rice), uncooked

Directions: Get you water boiling, add the cumin, salt, and bullion to the water. I put the garlic and onion in the food processor so they were chopped up fine. Chop up your cilantro, add it and the remaining ingredients. Turn the heat down to simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes or until rice is done.

Happy Eating!! My brother in law could not say enough good about it and swears it's better than the overly popular Cafe Rio. That's pretty amazing coming from Matt (who is so picky he eats a total of 10 food items)

because he is James

2009-06-15T21:05:00.002-07:00

Today we went swimming with some friends and James wanted to go to the lazy river. I couldn't go with him because I was holding Abbey, he grabbed my hand and dragged me toward the lazy river, when I told him we couldn't go because of Abbey, he said, "Mom, you are ruining my life" "I didn't know you had 'a life', James" He shook his head and said again, "you are ruining my life" (where does he hear these things? I think Nickelodeon plays too many tween shows during James prime TV watching hours)

Our washer is broke. It has been for a few days now. Clothes are starting to pile up. We are wearing things that went out of style a long time ago due to lack of clean clothes (don't fret Sears is coming over tomorrow)

Tonight James is getting ready for bed and I told him he had a choice 1) a pair of underwear with a hole in them OR 2) dirty underwear. He was really stressed out over the choice and when he responded "I just don't know, Mom" I couldn't help but bust up - then he replied "Your making a fool of me" (yeah, I think my kids watch too much TV)