Adventures In Mommy Land

Mommy, You paint my nail?!

2012-01-27T13:56:00.000-08:00

I'm linking up with Tara at Fabulous but Evil this afternoon for

Today I am wearing -

Secret Admirer

Sinful Color

Even though its black, I love this color because of the sparkle!

A certain 3 year old is now begging me to paint her nails :)

I love my girly girl!

Tag, I'm it!

2012-01-27T11:49:00.000-08:00

The Rules

1. You must post the rules and link back to who tagged you.
2. Post eleven fun facts about yourself in your blog post.
3. Answer the questions set for you, and then create eleven new questions to ask the people you tag.
4. Tag however many people you want.
5. Let them know you've tagged them!

Eleven Facts About Me:

1. I am the oldest of three girls.
2. Dave and I had only been dating 4 months when we found out we were pregnant with DJ... Eeek!
3. I am determined to go sky diving this summer!
4. I love scary movies, but get completely freaked out and let my mind wander too far..
5. All three of our kids were "Surprises!"
6. I love planning parties.. I already have DJ & Regs party lined up and I am paying for it next week. (party is not until June/July..)
7. I had blond hair until I hit my 20's and then it turned brown..
8. My biggest pet peeve is people who chew with their mouths open. It drives me freaking crazy!
9. I have my dream house picked out already, I just need to win the lottery ;)
10. I am the worst at saving money..
11. It took me forever to think of these...

Eleven Questions Asked By Kerri for Me:

1. What kinds of things do you do every single day, without fail?
Uuummm... take the kids to school, Dave to work, drink water... oh and do laundry *bleh

2. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an EMT Paramedic or a Labor and Delivery Nurse...

3. Aside from immediate family, who would you like to be stranded on a desert island with?
Tough one... Probably Shannon, Sassy's or Snarks ;)

4. Who would play you in a movie?
I would love for either Reese Witherspoon or Rachel McAdams :)

5. What are your top 3 favourite television shows?
- Secret Life. {don't hate!!}
- Las Vegas {reruns}
- Storage Wars

6. What is your most favourite meal?
Sushi, Lobster or a nice piece of Steak..

7. Do you have an annoying/bad habit?
Yes...

8. What 3 destinations do you dream of visiting one day?
- Hawaii
- Paris
- Australia

9. When was the last time you swam in the ocean?
I would have to say, Summer of 2002 in Maine.

10. What do you need to do more of?
Keep a set schedule and make better use of my time...

11. What was the last book you read?
I'm pretty sure it was the Lauren Conrad's LA Candy Series.. haha

My Questions For You:
{Since Kerri's q's were so great, I thought I would share some of them with you!}
1. What kinds of things do you do every single day, without fail?

2. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
3. Aside from immediate family, who would you like to be stranded on a desert island with?
4. Who would play you in a movie?
5. What are your top 3 favourite television shows?
6. What is your most favorite meal?
7. Do you have an annoying/bad habit?
8. What 3 destinations do you dream of visiting one day?
9. What is the number one thing you need when you are sick {minus meds}?
10. What do you need to do more of?
11. What would you do if you won the lottery?

Have Fun Lovelies!!

Jess @ Here Comes The Sun
Bunnie @ My Life Comes With Fine Print
Bethany @ Growing Each Day
Tara @ Our Journey
Karli @ California Dreamin'

Lactose Free, Please!

2012-01-27T04:12:00.000-08:00

When we started making the transition from formula to cows milk with Allen around 11 months old, I noticed that he would get horrible diarrhea and gas pains. {nice way to start a post, right?!}

So we we started mixing 1/2 formula and 1/2 milk, thinking that he is getting too much or his tummy is just trying to adjust to a new change. That lasted about a week and the diarrhea and gas pains were back :( I felt so bad because he was in so much pain. It finally subsided for a few weeks and I thought his tummy was finally liking the cows milk..

boy was i wrong...

Everything mentioned above came back and they brought a diaper rash with it. Allen's poor bottom was so bad, we had to use 2 types of cream. I decided to pick up some Lactose Free milk from the store the other day hoping that it was just a lactose Intolerant thing..

oh.my.goodness.

My little boy is happy again!! Everything is going away and he is finally sleeping at night again {minus the once a night whimper}. It amazes me how one little thing can change the way your body feels and make you feel so horrible. He has been on Lactose Free milk for 5 days and is doing fabulous!

All three kids were on special formula as infants.. DJ was on Gentlease, Reagan was on Nutramigen and Allen was on Soy for 2 months. Lets hope that he will eventually grow out of this and be able to drink regular milk!!

I have a few Fun Posts in the works for the next two weeks!!

- Review & Giveaway Announcement!!

- How I became a SAHM..

- Free Printables Post!

- How I survived Colic..

- Ask Me Anything Post!

- And many more!!!

Hope you all have a fabulous Friday!!!

It's Ok, Thursday..

2012-01-26T09:53:00.000-08:00

Today I am linking up with Amber...

It's Ok...

- That I have a huge mound of clean clothes on my bed waiting to be folded, hung and put away and I probably won't get to it for another 4+ hours..

- If I need at least 3 pieces of paper under the piece I am writing on..

- If my house is a disaster until the kids either take a nap or go to bed.. Whats the point in cleaning if its going to get thrashed within 8.2 seconds?!

- To have Mommy Time and not feel guilty... We need our sanity back..

- That this is the first time I am linking up for It's Ok, Thursday!!

What's Ok With You Today?!

Go link up!

What I'm Loving Wednesday...

2012-01-25T12:36:00.000-08:00

Linking up for WILW but I thought I would switch it up and make it

What My Kids Are Loving, Wednesday!

DJ is loving....

Mack Hauler with Shake n' Go Lightning Mcqueen - Cars & Cars 2 are favorites in this house, so of course this would be one of his favorite toys!

Just Dance Nickelodeon - My child is a video game junkie. No Lie! If I let him, he would be playing wii 24/7. He is great at a lot of games and if you know my son, he is a dancing fool!

Reagan is loving....

Memory Fish Bath Game - This game is super fun! Reagan will stay in the bath for hours if I let her. This game is great for learning!

Tea Set - I honestly have never been to so many tea parties in my life ;) Reagan loves to have tea parties. If I can't play at the moment, she will line up all of her favorite stuffed animals and have her own tea party! She is amazing at pretend play!

Allen is loving....

Crayola Beginnings - Baby Jumbles - This is an amazing sensory product and they are so easy to link together. Allen loves to make them bounce.

Crazy Legs Learning Bug - He thinks its the funniest thing when he pushes in the bee and the shapes all fly out..

And Moi:

I am loving my 47lb weight loss so far!! If you want to see more pictures or follow my weight loss journey, come on over to my weight loss blog!!

Have a great Wednesday!!!!

Don't forget to link up!

Week 3: Birthday Recap!!

2012-01-24T00:59:00.000-08:00

Oh.My.Goodness....

This past 4 days have been completely chaotic, to say the least..

Allen's birthday party was sunday and I felt like I was running around like a mad woman.. I had so much to do but just not enough time to do it all.. I was sad that I didn't get to do a few things, so that kinda put me in a funk.. Not to mention the husband barely helped me.. He saw how stressed I was getting and I was asking him for help, so he would do the bare minimum and then go sit back down and play the wii with the kids.. Grrr!

Anyways..

The party was great and everyone had a lot of fun, especially the Birthday Boy! He had no idea what was going on and was just excited that everyone was around him. He got lots of goodies and we are so thankfull for our family and friends!!

{The Birthday Boy!! He was so excited when he saw that his friend Ava came :)}

{And this beauty right here is Miss. Ava! I absolutely adore her! I got a few ideas for Allen's party from her party! It was super cute!!}

{Cousins playing... Reagan is basically Courtney's shadow. Whatever C does, Regs has to do right after her!}

{Some of the peeps watching the football game!}

{So Allen brought two juices over and gave the berry one to Ava.. Well, Ava didn't want that one, so she tossed it on the floor and tried to take Allens... hahaha! So Allen picked them both up and walked away! }

{Allen got lots of jammies! He needed them badly! I love that he sat in my lap the whole time and did not want to open a single present.. Until we got to a certain present a few pics down!}

{Looking at his new plates!! DJ insisted on helping and would not let me touch the bags.. lol He loved helping Allen open the presents too! }

{He now has his own set of blocks!! DJ and Reagan don't like letting Allen play with theirs because he will chew on them.. LOL Now he has his own and the older two want to play with his..}

{Just Chillin...}

{My Beautiful Baby Girl!! I love her so much!!}

{You see that fork in his hand... That my friend, is the only thing he wanted to play with. Out of all his toys and clothes, that is what he chose.. lol stinker! Also, he got a Cardboard Rocketship! My Sister In Law and Brother In Law get the kids the most unique gifts! I love it!!}

{There is that fork again... }

{Singing happy birthday to him.. He wasn't that amused with our singing, but who can blame him.. hahaha}

{Digging In!!!! He loved it!!}

{As you can tell...}

{My Sweets Table! It had Cupcakes, Licorice, Ring Pops, Hershey Kisses, Sugar Cookies, Triple Double Oreos dipped in white & milk chocolate, Lollipops, Juice, Chocolate Milk and Raisins. Yummy!!}

Saturday was my dads birthday.. I saw a fun fathers day candy card on pinterest and switched it up for a birthday card! My dad loved it and thought it was so creative! I had so much fun making it!!

Happy Tuesday!!!

Almost Party Time...

2012-01-19T13:45:00.000-08:00

Things are coming together for Allen's party this weekend! I am so excited!

Last night I was showing Dave all of the decorations and things I made for Allen's party, and he says "Why didn't you do any of this for DJ & Reagan?" I said "Because Pinterest didn't exist 3+ years ago!" hahahaha

Here are some of the goodies that keep cramping my hands...

{Thank You's for the candy bags}

{Thank You List}

{Food Labels}

{Cupcake Toppers}

{Water Bottle Wraps}

{Allen's Time Capsule!}

Hope you all have a great thursday!!

Oh, How Pinteresting..

2012-01-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Linking up today :)

Source: etsy.com via Breanna on Pinterest

Source: pinterest.com via Breanna on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Breanna on Pinterest

Source: blog.bitsofeverything.com via Breanna on Pinterest

Source: homeiswithyou.com via Breanna on Pinterest

Happy Wednesday!!!

52 Weeks: Week 2

2012-01-15T06:33:00.000-08:00

I honestly have no idea why my 1 year old decided to wake up at 4am.. It is way too early!

Well it's week 2 of my 52 Weeks :)

This past week has been crazy if you read yesterdays post about DJ being sick. He is doing a lot better and is back to his "Dennis the Menace" status.

I can't believe Allen's party is only 1 week away! I have just the shopping left to do. I have made majority of the diy projects done.. My hands were cramping from all of the scissor cutting. We sent out 25 invites to friends and family and 23 had rsvp'd yes. So Allen is going to have a fun party with all of his playdate friends and cousins!

A few days ago, I was on Pinterest *shocker* and saw these cute girlie valentines that I can make for Reagan! So I started playing around on my scrapbooking program and came up with these:

I Dig You pdf {girl}

I think they came out super cute! I am still tweaking them a little with the colors, but its a start!!

If you would like this printable just click on the link! I am going to be making a boys one today!

If you would like to link up for the 52 Weeks, Just take the Button and Link Up!!

Go Away, Flu!

2012-01-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a week..

This past week consisted of Birthday Party Planning, Preschool, ER Trip for a 4 year old puke machine and a Bounce Party..

Ugh, DJ got sick on Wednesday evening and started puking every 15-20 minutes from 7pm all the way up until 4:30am.. I was completely exhausted and DJ's tummy was aching. I felt so helpless and just wanted him to be able to sleep and stop dry heaving. He stayed home from school on Thursday and started to feel a little better. He was able to keep a piece of dry toast and some diluted apple juice w/pedialite. After we picked Reagan up from school, we came home and they laid down for naps. About an hour into his nap, he starts puking again. I called his ped and said that he seems dehydrated, been puking and is running a fever. They said to get into the office immediately so they can check him out. His Dr said to take him to the er.. I was really hoping to skip the er for a while..

We get to the er and they give him a Zofran while we wait. After about 5 minutes, I notice a change in him. He is talking more, smiling and starting to act like his normal self. I get him to pee for a sample. He hadn't peed in over 8+ hours. They gave him some apple juice and animal crackers that he was able to keep down. His urine came back with a +2 Ketones. The Dr said that they really don't want to have to iv him, so if I feel like he is doing better and is keeping fluids down, we can go home with a prescription for zofran. So we went home!

Last night we were invited to a friends birthday party at Bounce U. I was hesitant to take DJ, but he was feeling better and hadn't puked in over 24 hours, so we went. He started to look a little sluggish about 45 minutes in, so I had him get some water and sit down. We got into the party room and he had about 2 bites of his pizza and he was done. He had the look of "mommy, i don't feel good." His eyes were getting watery and I knew it was only a matter of time before he was either going to get sick or cry. I knew he wasn't feeling well when he passed up cake! So Reagan ate her cake and we headed home. When we got home, he got his jammies on and went to bed.

This morning he is doing better, but still has the queasy tummy. Today is going to consist of wiping the whole house with Clorox wipes again and getting everything organized for Allen's party next weekend!!!

Have a great Saturday!

Don't forget, If you would like to participate in the 52 weeks of a Busy Moms Life, the Link Up is Tomorrow!

Hello, Tuesday!

2012-01-10T07:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday!!

{Double Bloggin Tuesday.. Here and at my Weight Loss Blog!}

I have really started working on the craft aspect of Allen's Birthday Party in 2 weeks. I am so excited that everything is coming together just like I had planned. Dave went out and bought new ink cartridges and some sticker labels. I printed some out this evening and love the way it looks.

I have so much more to do, but i'm doing one project a day that way I don't get overwhelmed and freak out. lol So today is labels :)

My in laws got us a webcam for Christmas so they could chat with the kids.. We hooked it up last night and they started taking pictures an messing with the effects. They thought it was the funniest thing!! I was cooking dinner and could hear DJ laughing hysterically and Reagan saying "oh my goodness!" haha they were having a blast!

Have a great Tuesday!!!

52 Weeks: Week 1

2012-01-08T01:56:00.000-08:00

Wow, What a week!

I can not believe my little guy is one already! Time is just flying by! He loved digging into his cake on his birthday, but when my dad and sister came over last night for dinner, he wanted nothing to do with the cake.. lol Little Stinker!

This past week has been a little crazy since the kids went back to school and getting back into our schedule.. The two weeks off, christmas, flying and unpacking really messed up our routines..

I am excited to start this again! I did this in 2009 and loved it!

I hope you do too!! And you don't have to be a Mom to participate! Just jump on in!!

{Sorry it's short & sweet.. I have a one year old who won't let me put him down!}

Last day / First day...

2012-01-07T15:50:00.000-08:00

First off,

Thank You for all of the sweet Happy Birthday comments for Allen!!

It is still so surreal that he is a one year old. So bittersweet...

Anyways!

Allen had a great birthday yesterday! I am just going to give you a photo overload of Allen's last day as an infant and his First day as a toddler...

Enjoy!!!

{Birth-Day!!}

{Singing Happy Birthday... I think he was a little scared of our singing voices!! Hahaha}

I am also going to be starting my "52 Weeks of a Busy Mom's Life" tomorrow!

If you would like to participate, just link up tomorrow!!

Happy First Birthday, Allen James!

2012-01-06T01:57:00.000-08:00

Allen James,

I have no words. It has taken me over a week to write this letter to you. I am completely blown away that you are already one. a whole three hundred and sixty five days old. You are not my helpless infant anymore, but my growing independent loving toddler.

Yesterday I soaked up every ounce of your last day as an eleven month old. I took pictures of you playing, eating and even while you were taking your nap on my chest. The newborn smells came back and the tears began to flow.

From the very beginning, I knew that you would change our family for the better. When I found out you were going to be DJ and Reagan's Little Brother, I instantly fell in love with you all over again. Every kick, punch and hiccup was treasured, for you were my last pregnancy. Allen, you are so loved. Not by just us, but by so many people around you. We have all watched you grow. Watching you accomplish all of your milestones. Watching your spunky personality explode.

Its hard to imagine how much this past year has changed. You are not that tiny newborn anymore, instead you laugh at us, talk to us, walk ~~run~~ from us and for the most part sleep through the night. You have learned Independence and like to test out your boundaries.. You blow kisses. You give hugs. I love your slobbery opened mouth kisses. You love to dance, especially with your brother and sister. You can hold your own with them too.

As I think about the future and what it holds. What will next year look like. What will five or ten years from now look like? All I know is that I want to be there for you every step of the way. Watching you grow. Watching you discover this big world. Watching you accomplish your dreams. You are my son. I am your mother. That will never change.

You currently weigh 24lbs and have spiked up to almost 3ft tall. You love to drink from a Sippy Cup. You have 3 favorite blankets you like to cycle through. You are a climber, we have to constantly keep an eye on you. You have separation anxiety with daddy, but it is getting better. You are definitely a mama's boy.

No matter what happens Allen. No matter where our lives take us. I pray that you never forget how much I love you. I pray that you never give up on your dreams. You can do anything you set your mind to. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise. I pray that you laugh a lot. Love a lot. I pray that you never have any regrets in life. I pray that you work hard and always live a fulfilled life. I pray for your future. Your health and happiness.

Finishing up this letter. I have a knot in my throat. Tear filled eyes. I love you, Allen James.

I love you, I love you, I love you...

Today starts a new journey in your life. You are now a one year old. You have a lifetime of first to accomplish. And I pray that I am right by your side. Not just to watch you. But to help guide you through if you ever feel discouraged, defeated or unsure.

Let me be the first to say... Happy First Birthday, Allen!

{time stamped 1:57.. the time of your birth. just 12hrs earlier}

I love you so much..
forever and ever..

Love,

Mommy

Sneak Peek!!

2012-01-04T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here is a Sneak Peek of Mr. Allen's One Year Photo Shoot!!

I can not believe this little guy will be one in two days.. *tear*

I had to wake him up from a 20 minute nap, so he looks like he is in a daze and not feelin' it.. lol

Our Flight Home..

2011-12-31T10:36:00.000-08:00

The morning started out perfect.. Kids woke up in great moods, considering it was 4 in the morning. The bags were packed and in the car.. We were ready!

We got to the airport around 5:30a since our flight was scheduled to take off at 7:06a. We checked our bags and headed to security. I love flying with kids because we got to bypass the seriously long lines at security and headed to the Family area. They are a lot nicer and actually let us take our time getting everything ready and through the scanners.

We got to our gate about 6a and had about a half hour to kill before they started boarding. So I strolled with Allen to Starbucks {the second one we saw in Washington the whole time we were there!} and got Dave and myself some coffee and the kids some pastries. Around 6:30 is when our perfect morning came to a screeching halt... I knew something was up when our plane still wasn't at our gate at this time..

"For the passengers of flight 406 headed to San Francisco, There is a mechanical problem with the flap on the wing. We have no idea when it will be fixed. It could be 10 minutes or 4 hours, we just don't know. We will keep you updated."

I almost cried, Literally! This was the first time that I can remember as an adult that I have had a delayed flight. It was especially stressful because we had no idea when we would be getting home and we had one hyper kid, one sleeping kid and one crabby kid.. {i will let you guess, but those are in birth order..}

Around 7a {remember, our flight was supposed to leave at 7:06a} we hear another announcement:

"We are currently trying to move passengers with no checked luggage to other flights. If you would like, you can go to United Customer Service and try to get onto another flight or connecting flight. We are sorry for this inconvenience and are trying to get everything working."

My ass ran over to Customer Service and waited in line. There were two people ahead of me and within 3 minutes of waiting in line, 50 people were behind me.. phew! It was finally my turn! The lady was going to try to get us a flight straight to Sacramento, but Alaskan Airlines was at its max. So she decided to just keep us on our flight and then Protected us on a flight that was taking off to SFO at 2:15p and printed us tickets. Let me remind you that it is only about 7:15a.
I heard music to my ears at about 7:50a:

"Ladies and Gentlemen, The plane is fixed and passed all of its test runs. We will start boarding in 15 minutes! Thank you everyone for your patience and understanding!"

We were finally on the plane and in our seats at 8:15. The flight was a lot smaller since 30% of the passengers took other flights, which was nice! We were ready to go.. but the plane wasn't. We sat at our gate for about 30 minutes. The kids were getting cranky and I was personally getting really frustrated! At about 9a we finally pull away from the gate and we started down the runway/tarmac. We then come to a stop and then the pilot comes on the loud speaker:

"Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen. Due to San Francisco's weather, SFO is only letting a certain number of planes head there per hour. So we will be waiting for about 15-20 minutes. Sorry for the delay and we should be taking off soon."

I could not believe this! By this time, I look over and DJ is passed out. Apparently this waiting was for the birds and decided to take a nap.. lol Reagan was doing what she does best and whined for about 45 minutes. I was ready for either a few shots of something strong for myself or a tranquilizer for my daughter. I finally got Allen to sleep after him fighting it since we sat our asses on that plane. At 9:30a we were finally taking off. It was a very bumpy take off and Reagan had the look of fear on her face. She also looked like she was going to puke. I have to admit, in my 27 years of flying, that by far was the scariest take off I can ever remember.

So let's recap for a minute... We took off from SeaTac 8 minutes before we were scheduled to land in San Francisco.. Just freaking lovely!

DJ and Allen slept for about 45 minutes while we were flying, then all hell broke loose.. Everyone was crabby and hungry.. I forgot to pack their snacks in the diaper bag and they were pissed! The one thing I hate about United is that they do not provide snacks of any kind during a flight under 4 hours. Just Drinks. I asked if I could purchase any of the food and they said no because it was for first class only.. I was beyond livid! So I decided to just let the kids scream and cry and fight.. I was mentally exhausted and just didn't care.

About 11:30 we hear the pilot come on the loud speaker again with some more shitty news that we would have to wait about 20 minutes to descend. So we flew in circles around Point Reyes. I was so ready to get off of that plane, I could feel the walls caving in. The fog was insane in San Francisco and we finally landed around noon. We had to taxi in and wait another 15 minutes to get to our gate.

I have never been so happy to get off of that plane in my life! The kids too! Dave's cousin Carol was at the airport to pick us up and was such a blessing! We kept her updated with everything and she was totally okay with it. She knows how airports are, her husband works for united. I got the kids in the car and they were so excited to see her! They told her all about Santa and their presents. Dave got the luggage and stroller in the car and we were finally headed to our car!

Poor Allen was so tired, he cried himself to sleep. We transferred the kids and everything else into our car {without waking Allen up!} got some snacks and at 1pm we were on our way HOME!!! About half way home, we finally saw sun!! It was amazing! It was cloudy and rainy 6 out of the 7 days we were in Seattle. Allen woke up about 3/4 of the way home, he was a tired little guy! Dave started getting really tired at around 3p and was dazing when I yelled at him "Dave watch the road!" and he pulled the car back into our lane. We almost drove head-on into a K Rail. From then on out, I watched him like a hawk. It really jolted him and his adrenalin was racing. I told him to pull over and I would drive.

We walked into our house at 3:30p. That was a total of 11 1/2 hours. Our journey was unbelievably tiring but I am glad that all Five of us made it home safely. Reagan passed out around 6:30 and didn't wake up until 6a this morning! I have already done a total of 5 loads of laundry and am now going to go through all of the kids toys and clothes..

Did I mention that I am so happy to be home?!?

Oh and a certain little boy will be ONE in SIX DAYS!!!

Meeting Someone Special....

2011-12-27T14:51:00.000-08:00

On Monday, I was able to meet a very special person in my life! April and I met on BBC for our August 08 Babies! Her and I, along with 14 other girls came together on a private pro board. Since 2007 we have been great friends. We have shared so many things including some dark secrets, from both sides. I consider a great friend and will always cherish her friendship. So far, I have met 2 amazing "Sassy Mama's!"

When my mom asked us to come up to Washington for Christmas, I was ecstatic since April lived about an hour away from her. I was supposed to come up to Seattle with a friend last year, but became pregnant and didn't want to travel by car that far. So when the opportunity came, I took it!

We decided that Reagan and Cash would have an arranged marriage, even before they were born! LOL I highly doubt they will like this idea though..

When I met April in person, I instantly knew she would be a life long friend. She has such a tender heart and you can tell she loves her children with all of her heart. I hope that we can look back 15-20 years from now and still be that excited to see each other or chat with each other!

When we got there, Cash did not want to play so all of the other kids went upstairs to play. Reagan followed April's daughter around like a lost puppy. Reagan had so much fun with Taylor and before we left, Taylor said "I wish we could keep her forever!" I think she wants a little sister.. lol

Here are a few pictures of our playdate! On thursday, Dave and I are going out with April and Matt to the Casino!! KID FREE!!! I am so freaking excited!!!

{April & I}

{Cash & Myself}

{Reagan & April}

{There is over 125lbs lost between us in this picture!!}

{Cash & Reagan!! The two that brought April and I together :) }

Vacation & Christmas Part 3...

2011-12-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

Show us your Christmas

Pictures from christmas morning!!!

They had so much fun opening presents and allen had no idea what to do.. lol

All allen wanted to do was play with the boxes and wrapping paper!!

{I have no idea how we are going to get all of this home!!}

hahahaha

Vacation & Christmas Recap Part 2..

2011-12-26T07:24:00.000-08:00

These past few days we have been just relaxing and had been getting everything ready for christmas, but since its all over now, we get to do all of our sight seeing and visit friends!

Dave and I want to go to the Space Needle and Pike's. Dave also wants to go to the First Starbucks.. lol We are also going to visit some friends and family. Dave's cousin lives here and my friends April & Nicole! And it just so happens that Nicole is in Sac right now.. lol Kinda switched places.

Here are a few more pictures! I will have all of the pics up by the end of the day :)

{Reagan and Myself relaxing}

{Allen's new boots!}

Christmas is up next!

Vacation & Christmas Recap Part 1..

2011-12-26T07:02:00.000-08:00

We made it to Seattle!!

The kids did so well on the flight and allen fell asleep. When we got to the house, the kids played in the playroom for hours. Then the went to the park and played! Here are some of the first two days we were there!!

{on the plane, Allen passed out!}

{Playing on the toys!}

{Reagan with her LV clutch and Memaw with her Fendi}

Hope everyone had a fabulous christmas!!!

Today we are heading to my friend April's house!!! I can't wait to meet her!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-25T08:59:00.000-08:00

Wishing you and your family a very merry christmas!

I hope your day is filled with love and laughter!!

Merry Christmas, Bloggie Friends!

{Pictures will be up soon!!}

Guest Blogger: Kerry!

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

Today starts my Guest Bloggers!!

{If you are interested in guest blogging, let me know!}

Today Kerry is reading all of you a great Christmas classic with a down under twist! She is a fellow January '11 Mama and has three adorable children! I just love reading her blog and I hope you do too!!!

So without further adieu...

'An Aussie Night Before Christmas'

Written by Yvonne Morrison

'Twas the night before Christmas, there wasn't a sound.

Not a possum was stirring, no-one was around.

We'd left on the table, some tucker and beer,

hoping that Santa Claus soon would be here.

We children were snuggled up safe in our beds,

while dreams of pavlova danced round in our heads.

And mum in her nightie, and dad in his shorts,

had just settled down to watch TV sports.

When outside the house a mad ruckus arose,

loud squeaking and banging woke us from our doze.

We ran to the screen door, peeked cautiously out,

snuck onto the deck, then let out a shout.

Guess what had woken us up from our snooze?

But a rusty old Ute pulled by eight mighty roos.

The cheerful man driving was giggling with glee,

And we both knew at once who this plump bloke must be.

Now, I'm telling the truth - it's all dinki-di,

those eight kangaroos fairly soared through the sky.

Santa leaned out the window to pull at the reins,

and encouraged the roos, by calling their names.

"Now Kylie! Now Kirsty! Now Shazza and Shane!

On Kipper! On Skipper! On Bazza and Wayne!

Park up on that water tank, grab a quick drink,

I'll scoot down the gum tree, be back in a wink!"

So up to the tank those eight kangaroos flew,

with the Ute full of toys, and Santa Claus too.

He slid down the gum tree and jumped to the ground,

then in through the window he sprang with a bound.

He had bright sunburned cheeks and a milky white beard,

a jolly old joker was how he appeared.

He wore red stubby shorts and old thongs on his feet,

and a hat of deep crimson as shade from the heat.

His eyes - bright as opals - Oh! how they twinkled!

And, like a goanna, his skin was quite wrinkled!

His shirt was stretched over a round bulging belly,

which shook when he moved, like a plate full of jelly.

A fat sack of prezzies he flung from his back,

and he looked like a swaggie unfastening his pack.

He spoke not a word, but bent down on one knee,

to position our goodies beneath the Yule tree.

Surfboard and footy-ball shapes for us two,

and for dad, tongs to use on the new barbeque.

A mysterious package he left for our mum,

then he turned and he winked and he held up his thumb.

He strolled out on deck and his roos came on cue,

flung his sack in the back and prepared to shoot through.

He bellowed out loud as they swooped past the gates,

"Merry Christmas to all, and goodonya, mates!"

from the land Down Under!

Go check out Kerry and her adorable family!

Heading Out!!

2011-12-22T10:58:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to jump on real quick between packing and stressing...

Anyways, We are getting ready to drive to San Francisco and then fly to Seattle tomorrow!!! So excited!!

I get to meet a great friend who I met on BBC {BabyCenter} four years ago on our August '08 Birth Board!! We have been apart of a private board with some amazing ladies and I am so excited I get to meet her!! I also get to see a friend I used to work with and Dave's cousin!! It will be a fun trip!!

I have a few guest bloggers scheduled while I am gone, starting with Kerry tomorrow!! She is a sahm to three beauties from the down under!!
Hope you all have a fabulous day!!!

Just a few more days till Christmas!!!

xoxo

Show me Christmas {Traditions}.. Week 3

2011-12-20T05:13:00.000-08:00

This week on Show Me Christmas, is all about Traditions!

We get to talk about our traditions, activities, recipes, etc..

Past Traditions:

- Going to my GG's Christmas Eve and Opening Presents!
- My sister and I would always wake up hella early, make a lot of noise and then run back to our beds.. That way when our parents would come out, we would magically wake up! Then we got to open presents because everyone was up.. hahaha Sneaky!
- Baking, Baking and lots more Baking.. I love to bake & cook!
- Christmas Brunch.. I loved having all of my grandparents, aunts, uncles & cousins together..

Present Traditions:

- The kids and I love to make Ornaments, Cards and Decorate the House & Tree!
- They love to help me bake and make cookies!
- Taking the kids to see the christmas lights! They absolutely love it!!

Future Traditions:

- Elf on the Shelf!! I had never heard of this until this year!
- Decorating the house as a Family!

A Recipe:

Kugele - Dave makes a delish Lithuanian Potato Dish!!

Miscellany Monday & Winner!!

2011-12-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

Good Morning, Chick-A-Dee's!

Hope everyone had a fabulous weekend! The kids got to open presents this weekend with family! They got lots of goodies and were spoiled to the max! We will be going to my dads on Tuesday to open presents and have dinner! Allen was unsure on what to do when it came to opening his presents lol.. He would just sit there and look at it like "are you going to open it for me?" haha He finally figured it out on the last present :)

--------------------------------------------------

So, Now on to the winner of my My Memories Suite Giveaway!!

Nicole at Clay & Nicole + 2

Congratulations!!! I hope you love this as much as I do!!

{Please email me at Smith.Breanna3@yahoo.com}

I will be having a few Guest Bloggers lined up Friday and next week, I'm excited!! Also, if you want to participate in my "Fabulous Blogger Mondays" email me at Smith.Breanna3@yahoo.com

Don't forget to go link up for Miscellany Monday!!

Here

{it won't let me link the button :(}

Addiction & Withdrawals..

2011-12-17T09:28:00.000-08:00

So Dave is going through some serious withdrawals right now...

Dave has been a smoker for at least 10 years.

He used to smoke marijuana before we met and once I found out I was pregnant with DJ, I made him choose between his habit and his family. Well obviously he chose his family. I used to smoke, but once I found out I was pregnant, I quit cold turkey and never went back. I have asked him to quit for years, but he never seems to have the strength/will power. I am happy to announce that he hasn't had a cigarette in over 36 hours..

I know what you are thinking, "Psshh 36 hours?!"

But that is when the withdrawals start kicking in and the urges are insane. He has been so sick to his stomach and can't sleep. He is coughing up, what sounds to be his lungs. He started getting the shakes this morning and was seriously doubting himself. I told him that if he doesn't believe in himself, at least know that his family does. His children will thank him later in life for this.

I'm so proud of the steps he is taking. He got 2 big boxes of gum for his white elephant gift at work and he says he will be chewing gum whenever he has the urge. He wrote on our bathroom mirror "I will not smoke today." He said "I can't look at this long term. I have to take it day by day." Which is totally true.

His mother passed away from Lung Cancer when he was 18 years old. I think he has finally come to realize that he wants to be around when his kids graduate college, get married and start families. He works in an industry where over 3/4 of the employees smoke. I know he is going to have a hard time, but like he told me this morning he has to take it one day at a time..

Any prayers and/or positive vibes are greatly appreciated during this transition..

Thanks ♥

Taking That Leap...!

2011-12-16T12:15:00.000-08:00

So I thought I would start up something fun for the new year..

{Fabulous Blogger Mondays!}

{not quite sure of the name, still playing around with it!}

So every Monday, there will be a different Blogger featured and will have questions/answers!! I've been toying around with the idea for some time and thought, Why Not! Lets take that leap and if I crash & burn, well, then it wasn't meant to be.. lol

No harm in that, right?!

So, If you are interested, please email me at Smith.Breanna3@yahoo.com

The first post will be on January 2, 2012

Confessions...

2011-12-16T08:18:00.000-08:00

It's time for confessions...

- We leave for Seattle in six days and I have no idea what I am packing for myself, let alone the kids... I wish someone would pack for me...

- Only 1/3 of our christmas tree has ornaments on it. A certain 11 month old *cough Allen cough* raided the tree.. So I moved everything up. It looks so goofy..

- I'm not even done shopping for everyone... If I had to estimate, I am probably 1/3 of the way done. Since I turned into a gimp with my foot, I haven't done anything.

- I'm a little disappointed about my weight loss. I have been at the same weight for a week and nothing is making it budge. I am thankful for the 40lbs that have been evicted though!

- I am freaking ecstatic about getting new phones next week!!! Our free upgrade is so close, I can taste it!! No more 2 year old phone!!!

- Don't forget!! My Giveaway ends today at Midnight PST... So go check it out!!

Now, go link up!!

Mama needs a vacation, stat...

2011-12-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is only 10 days away! This year has gone by so fast.. In 8 short days, the family and I will be boarding a plane for Seattle! The kid are excited to go on an airplane again..

I have been making my packing lists for everyone and I am completely lost.. We have to make room for everything that will be coming home with us: clothes, toys, etc.. I'm the type of person that will pack a weeks worth of clothes for an overnight trip haha. I need to be ready for anything that comes my way! Plus it's going to be super cold and maybe snowing, so I need to pack all of the kids warm bulky clothes.

While we are up in Seattle, we get to visit friends and family members that myself and the kids have never met! I'm pretty excited about that!! :) One of them is a fellow BBC Momma that I met when we were pregnant with out July/August 08 babies! She is such a fabulous mom and says some of the most hilarious things. Another person is Dave's cousin from his mom's side :) We are going to get together with him and his partner, I can't wait! We even share the same birthday, so I know we will get along great!

This past weekend the kids had a "homework/family bonding project" to do. Thankfully I remembered Sunday evening about it.. {bad mommy} We had to trace both the kids hands and one foot to make Rudolph! They also had to have a background and the teacher said "Be Creative!"

hahaha does she know who she is talking to?!?

I didn't have any thick paper, so I cut up my shutterfly box that my calendars came in and had them start painting!! DJ was done in like 5.7 seconds {typical adhd child} and Reagan took her time and made sure there was paint on every inch of her paper {typical ocd child}..

After they were done drying, I glued the Rudolph's onto their painted papers and busted out the Puff Paints.. Hahaha! DJ told me what colors he would like and what he wanted me to do, and the same with Reagan.

I thought they were delightfully tacky and perfect for preschool! It showed creativity!

When we brought them to school, their teacher loved them!! I was pretty happy about the final products!

**Don't forget to enter my "My Memories Suite Giveaway!"**
**It ends on Friday!!**

Have a great day!

Wordless Wednesday...

2011-12-14T01:50:00.000-08:00

Show Me Your Christmas: Week Two!

2011-12-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

This weeks "Show Me your Christmas" is Decorations!!

I have no decorations up.. How sad is that..
{it's a long story..}

Oh Wait! I have the Stockings up, but that's it.

So, I will show you some of last year and my favorite place to take the kids :) I remember being the kids age and my parents and grand parents taking me to Dovewood Ct to see all of the lights!!

And a video of one of the houses :)

I can't wait to take all three kids here next week!!

So go link up with Becky & Aly and post your Holiday Decorations!!

----------------------------------

**Also, Don't forget to enter my My Memories Suite Giveaway!! **

It ends on Friday!!

Have a great Tuesday!

Guest Bloggers...

2011-12-12T16:18:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow Bloggie Friends!

I am looking for Six Guest Bloggers!! We will be in Seattle for Christmas and would love to have you Guest Blog!!

The dates would be 12/23, 12/26, 12/27, 12/28, 12/29 & 12/30!
{I will have weekend posts covered}

If you are interested, please email me at Smith.Breanna3@yahoo.com and let me know what date you would like!

Thanks!!

My Memories Suite Review & Giveaway!

2011-12-12T04:51:00.000-08:00

My Memories Suite is rated #1 by Amazon and TopTenReviews. Using this software, you can create digital scrapbooks, photo books, cards, calendars and great gifts without having to buy expensive and complicated software programs. Well, I got a chance to review My Memories Suite.

My experience with My Memories Suite was great! This program makes it so easy and fun to scrapbook. It’s so easy you can have your kids help you do it!You can create your own albums from the designer templates that come with the software. With this digital scrapbooking software it is super easy! Seriously, once you get the hang of it you can create so many different projects with ease. This software not only allows you to create scrapbooking pages but you can also create cards, invitations, anything else your crafty heart desires! And its all so easy!

Want to Purchase: You can buy this great software at MyMemories.com for $39.97 but if you use the Coupon Code: STMMMS79985 you get an additional $10 off! Making this program only $29.97, and

You will also get a $10 coupon for the My Memories store! That's a $20 value!

Or even better...

Want to Win: Enter to win a copy of My Memories Suite! A $39.97 dollar value!

Here are just a few things I have done!! These literally took me, like 4 minutes to make! So fun and easy!!

So Cute, Right?!?

Rules:

- Giveaway starts on December 12th {today}

Ends on December 16th.

- Must be a follower of my blog.

- Winner will be determined per Random.org

and will be announced on Monday, December 19th.

- One Winner will be determined, please respond within 48 hours

or a next person will be chosen.

- Must be 18 years or older.

- Please read the rules/entries carefully.

- Leave a comment for each entry.

Entries:

Mandatory

1. Go to My Memories and let me know what your favorite digital paper pack or layout is, then comment to let me know which one you like.

{1 entry}

Extras

1. Like "Adventures in Mommy Land" on Facebook.

{2 entries = 2 comments}

2. Like "My Memories" on Facebook.

{2 entries = 2 comments}

3. Follow "My Memories Suite" on Twitter.
{2 entries = 2 comments}
4. Tweet about this Giveaway and let me know you did.

{1 entry = 1 comment}

* you can tweet once a day and leave 1 comment each day

5. Blog about this Giveaway and let me know you did.

{1 entry = 1 comment}

* you can blog once a day and leave 1 comment each day.

6. Place my Blog Button on your blog.

{3 entries = 3 comments}

Good Luck!!!

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party....

2011-12-11T14:14:00.000-08:00

So our Ugly Christmas Sweater Party was last night and was a blast!!

Here are some of the pictures!!

Don't laugh too hard!!

Hope you got a good laugh out of those!!!

**I will be having a Giveaway on my blog, TOMORROW!!!!**

~Stay Tuned~

Happy Eleven Months, Allen!

2011-12-06T12:49:00.000-08:00

{bad mommy had everything ready to go, just didn't post it :( }

Wow, 11 months!

This year has gone by so fast, it's ridiculous! Like I say every month, it seems like just yesterday we were bringing him home :) In just one short month, this little guy will be one! Planning his birthday has been so much fun! I love planning parties and get togethers!

This month has been really fun! Allen is currently 22lbs and very tall. He is still in size 3 diapers and is wearing all 12 month clothes. He has a few 18 month long sleeve shirts that are a hair big. We introduced cows milk to him but we have noticed that his tummy doesn't do too well with it. I bought some lactose/dairy free milk and he did not like it at all! He is going to get more allergy testing done, that way we will know what's going on. He is still getting formula and is eating 3 meals and snacks. He loves to drink from a Sippy cup!

Allen is all over the place. He doesn't crawl anymore and likes to run everywhere! He has mastered his jumping {sorta}, he thinks it's the funniest thing to try and jump. He loves to dance around the house with DJ and Reagan. He is learning new things every day and I love to watch him explore and soak up everything in his path. His new things to do are:

- Wave and say "bye, bye, bye."
- Point to things and say "this!"
- Blow kisses
- Says mama, dada, papa, bye, this, baba, me-me's {nummies/food}, ball and dah {dog}.
- Mimics people when they laugh.

His sleeping habits are getting so much better! He is starting to really sleep through the night and rarely wakes up! If he does, its usually for a bottle or he lost his blanket. He takes 1-2 naps a day, lasting 1-3 hours. This little guy has been teething, so his sleeping has been less than normal. He is working on tooth #7 & tooth #8, so he has been crabby..

Allen had Croup for the second time this year. He was completely miserable and I felt so helpless. I absolutely hate it when any of my kids are sick. Its hard to keep germs away since the older two are in school. But he is feeling so much better, minus the teething!

His favorite toys to play with are anything DJ and Reagan are playing with.. Seriously! He will go into the kids room and play with them for hours. He is able to hold his own and loves his little bit of freedom. His favorite time of day is obviously bath time! He comes running when he hears the water running.. lol Such a little goober!!

I can't believe you are almost one, little guy!

Mommy loves you so very much!!

Happy Eleven Months, Lovebug!

Show Me Your Christmas: Week One

2011-12-06T10:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas Link Up Time! Week One's link up is:

Show Me Your Christmas Lists!

Here is my Christmas Wish List!!

{Acura MDX.. Need a bigger car!}

{A new Coach purse to throw all of my crap in!}

{This amazing outfit!!}

{And this one..}

{And this one...}

{Gift Cards.. Love!}

{A new Wardrobe... I just lost 40lbs and need new clothes!!!}

I guess thats it for now.. lol

Don't forget to link up!!

Miscellany Monday..

2011-12-05T10:39:00.000-08:00

The weekends go by way too fast...

- Eleven Months.. Allen will be 11 months old tomorrow! I can't believe how fast this year has gone by. It makes me kind of sad to know that he is our very last baby. I have his birthday invitations ready to be mailed off and my party list almost revised and ready to go! I will be doing a post about his birthday soon!!

- Christmas is getting so close! I can't believe it will be here within a few weeks! Lets just say that I am not done with everyone. I have been slacking, but I need to get my butt in gear!

- Flying.. Allen will be on his first airplane in a few weeks!! We are flying to Seattle for christmas and hopefully it will be a white one!! Dave has to cut the trip short one day and will be flying back the day before we do.. Which means I will have all three kids in an airport by myself.. {pray for me!} I think we will be good. The kids love to fly and they have been talking about it for weeks!

- Decorating.. We are decoration our tree and the house when the kids get home from school today! They can't wait! We might take them to go see santa before we leave on vacation. Last year DJ and Reagan did pretty well.. Im a little nervous about Allen.. haha

Weight Loss - I am doing great on my weight loss and recently met my 2nd mini goal! I have lost a total of 40lbs so far and feel great!! I feel like a totally different person and its such a self esteem booster when people notice and comment! Go here if you would like to follow my progress :)

Happy Monday!!

Don't forget to link up your Miscellany Monday post!

Photo Dump Friday...

2011-12-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh Friday!

Next weekend I am throwing an "Ugly Christmas Sweater Party!" These are the sweaters Dave and I will be wearing! These are hilarious!! My sister has been keeping a lookout at her work for some gems like these! I can't wait to see everyone else's sweaters!!

{Dave's Beauty that will probably be a little tight... Hahaha!}

{My amazing gem, Includes Ice Skaters and all!!}

_________________________________________________

Yesterday after DJ was playing with my ipod, I found all of these hilarious pictures.. I was wondering why he was in the bathroom for so long.. hahahaha He took over 100 pictures.. They are mostly of him making different facial expressions and then there are the toilet, bathtub, feet and bathmats... This little guy loves to take pictures of himself and has the funniest facial expressions...

{The many faces of DJ!}

Have a great weekend!!!

Wordless Wednesday...

2011-11-30T17:00:00.000-08:00

http://www.threesixfivetoafive.blogspot.com/

Sickies...

2011-11-29T10:22:00.000-08:00

Poor Baby :(

Yesterday he had an appt and we confirmed what I already knew... Allen has Croup :( He is on two antibiotics and we got a refill on his albuterol for the breathing treatments.. I can't believe how expensive these things are..

My poor little guy cant catch a break. This is the second time he has had Croup. I am just glad that it was not RSV or Bronchiolitis. So for now we are resting and getting him healthy.. Thank goodness he has been sleeping his sickies away yesterday and today...

Time to go Lysol the house... Again!

Common Sense, People!!

2011-11-27T07:09:00.000-08:00

My poor lovebug is sick :(

Friday he woke up with a nasty cough and it just keeps getting worse. It's a mix between a smokers cough and a bark-like cough. I am praying it's not Croup or BronchIllyria. He had both at 3 weeks old. I was also recently informed that a little boy that was at the same together as us a few days ago, has RSV!

I am so livid!!!

Who takes their sick child to a get together?!? Especially when there are other children coming! There were at least 7 other children there, Allen being the youngest. People have no common sense! So now my child has to suffer because people can't keep their sick kids home, where they should be!!

Allen has been getting breathing treatments at least four times a day. He is having such a hard time sleeping because he so congested and is so crabby. I feel so bed for him :( He looks so miserable and I'm sure he feels the same.. Thankfully he has an appt tomorrow.

I'm going to go cuddle my sick lovebug..

Have a wonderful Sunday..

DJ in Dreamland...

2011-11-26T08:12:00.000-08:00

I am so happy that thanksgiving break is over!!!

Don't get me wrong, I love my kids to death! This week was just a little too chaotic! Not to mention that we were stuck in the house mon-wed & fri. Today I am getting us out of the house!

So if you haven't ~~heard~~ read about how hyper DJ is, I will give you a little background..

DJ has "Unofficial ADHD." That means he has ADHD Tendencies, but they can not officially diagnose him until the age of Five. He is just a big ball of energy and just go go go's..

A few friends were talking about Melatonin and it's uses. So last night I did a lot of research about it and decided that we were going try this out. Bed time usually consists of him messing around and not falling asleep till at least 11pm. It was getting completely ridiculous!

Last night Dave ran to the store and picked up a bottle of Melatonin's fast dissolving tablets {strawberry flavor}. I gave him 1/2 of a 5mg tablet and told him it was time to relax. About 45 minutes later, it was time for bed. He fought about not wanting to go to bed, but finally realized he will always lose this battle :) I get him tucked in and calmed down.

After about 15 minutes he was

PASSED OUT!!!!!!

I think I actually did the happy dance!!

I don't think He has ever gone down that fast in a long time! I am planning on making a dr appt for him, just to talk with his ped and let her know that we will be using this with him now. We are going to start pushing the kids bedtime up. It's currently 9pm and I want bedtime to be either 7:30-8pm.

Guess what else...?!?

He slept through the whole night with out getting up or rustling around..!!

This morning he woke up at 8am, refreshed and in a fantastic mood! This is definitely going to be a life saver in our house at bed time! I am so happy I have finally found something that helps him relax and calm down.

Now its off to clean my tornado stricken house!

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!!

Personalized Books!!

2011-11-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to get the kids personalized books, but they are always so expensive!

So while I was cruising Plum District last night, I saw that there was a deal for Two Personalized Books for $22! These books usually go for that much, just for one! I had to get them!! So I ordered the Cars 2 Big Books for DJ & Disney Princesses Big Books for Reagan!! So a total of 2 deals/4 books. Each deal came with 2 books.

After the Promo Code & Referals, I spent a total of

$7

{$88 value}

At Plum District, You can refer friends and you Both get $5 Plum Dollars! So I sent a mass email out last night to friends, family and my other emails..
Also...

They are having a promo going on!

If you use enjoy10 at checkout, you get an extra $10 to shop with or put towards your total!

Thats $15 in Plum Dollars you get to shop with!!

So, what are you waiting for?!?!

Go sign up Here and start shopping!!!

French Toast Casserole...

2011-11-25T10:43:00.000-08:00

So I was looking through my Family Fun magazine and came across this really yummy looking recipe. My kids love French Toast, so I thought this would be a big hit!

Yesterday when we were at dave's co-workers house, this was there and my kids devoured it!!

So here it is!!

Ingredient:

- 10c Bread {thick, I used Sara Lee French Toast}

- 8oz Cream Cheese

- 12 Eggs

- 1 1/2c Milk

- 1/2c Maple Syrup & a little extra

- 2/3c Half & Half

- 2tbsp Cinnamon

- 1tsp Vanilla

Directions:

1. Cut up Bread into cubes and put in a bowl. I cut it 4v/4h to make 16 pieces per slice.

2. Beat Cream Cheese at medium Speed until smooth.

3. Add Eggs one at a time. Mix well.

4. Add Milk, Half & Half, Maple Syrup and Vanilla. Mix well.

5. Pour Maple Syrup on the bottom of a greased 13x9 baking dish.

6. Put Bread in the dish over the Syrup.

7. Pour Mixture over the Bread.

8. Make sure it is evenly distributed over the Bread.

9. Bake at 375 for 30-40 minutes.

10. Remove, let sit for 15 minutes.

Enjoy!!!!!

{Why Yes, That is a Zoo Pals plate ;) }

Irritated, to say the least..

2011-11-21T22:14:00.000-08:00

So this whole domain thing is pissing me off!

They said it could take up to three days, well tomorrow is day three... I really don't want to have to bitch someone out!

Anyways..

Yesterday Reagan and I went to target and I got majority of the kids Christmas goodies. Reagan probably forgot about all of the gifts already.. Haha then it was offto a friends house fir a "Friends-Giving!" This was such a neat idea! The kids had a blast playing with the other kids and I got to have some yummy margaritas!!

This week is going to be very busy. I can't believe thanksgiving is in a few days. This just means Allen will be one soon! I'm not really sure how I feel about this. He is my very last baby, last pregnancy, last everything.. But that is a whole nother post..

I hope you all have a great day tommorrow!!

Build a Bear & Giveaway Winners!!!!

2011-11-20T07:49:00.000-08:00

Its so rainy here.. Blah!

Today I am taking Reagan to Build a Bear :)

We have been wanting to take her for her birthday, but things just kept getting in the way. So since I took DJ to the movies last weekend, I am going to finally take Reagan today!

I'm so excited for her!! Dave took me there when we were dating and it was so much fun! Then when DJ was a baby, we took him and made him a bear.. Now its Reagan's turn!! We will probably take Allen next year.

Then we have a Friends-Giving/Birthday Party for one of Dave's co-workers. So that should be fun! The kids get to play with all of the other kids and run some of the energy that they have, out of their systems! Its getting crazy here with them cooped up in the house..

I can't believe Thanksgiving is 5 days away..

I am so ready for some good food!!

----------------------------------------

Well...

Its that time for me to announce the winners for the

Calendar & Shopping Cards!!

Drum roll please...

.......................

.............

.....

{Sabrina S.}

{for some reason, I cant get to your blog}

{Jennie @ Our Family of 3}

If you ladies could please email me at Smith.Breanna3@yahoo.com

That way I can get you guys your goodies!!!

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!!

My Custom Domain!!!

2011-11-19T21:30:00.000-08:00

So I finally did it!!

After 3+ years of blogging, I finally have my very own domain!

http://www.adventuresinmommylandblog.net/

So things might be a little different for the next 24 hours...

Don't forget to change it!!!

Winners of the giveaway will be posted tomorrow!!!!

Counting Sheep...

2011-11-19T03:18:00.000-08:00

Its 2:34am and I can not sleep...

So I am going through all 100 of my Facebook albums.. Yeah, you read that correctly, one hundred... I am putting them in years. Right now I am on 2009 pt. 3. I don't know why I started at 2009, since I have 07 & 08 pics too... Oh well!

Today is going to be a very long day, I can already feel it.

I have a big list of things to do today:

- Go through all of the kids Toys. {gotta make room for the new ones!}

- Go through all of the kids Clothes. {I still have 12 mo. shorts & tops that fit Reagan.}

- Organize the kids Bedroom/Closet. {I swear a tornado goes through their room daily!}

- Go through all of my clothes.. Since I've lost 35lbs, ~~all~~ majority of my clothes are too big!

- Deep Clean the Bathrooms...

- Deep Clean the Kitchen {stove, fridge, counters, floor}

- Clean the Carpets if I have time.

See, told ya!!

I have So much to get done within a month. We are leaving for Seattle in Dec for Christmas!! So I want to make sure everything is done and I don't have to stress on anything.. This will be The second time DJ and Reagan will be flying! They absolutely love it!! Hopefully Allen will love it too!!

Hope you all have a great weekend!! Don't forget, my giveaway ends TODAY!!!!! So, go comment and get yourself entered!!!

Pajama Party!!!

2011-11-18T13:34:00.000-08:00

The kids were so excited this morning when they woke up for school!! They got to wear pajamas to school for "Pajama Day!" They thought it was the greatest thing! They also got to bring Teddy Bears. DJ took the one I made at build a bear when I was pregnant with him & Reagan took the one she got at her baby shower :) They were ready to to go 20 minutes early!!

Then it was off to my dr appt. My dr is very proud of me and my weight loss! She said that she can really tell in my face and that I look so much happier :) It made me feel really good! My 2 month weigh loss is 30lbs! I would have been lower but my visitor came a whole week early.. So bloat kept me at the same... She also asked me how I will handle thanksgiving dinner.. I told her that I will do portion control and will sadly skip out on the pie. The price I have to pay to lose this weight!

After my appt, I went to my dads where Dave and Allen were. I picked up my sister and we went to pick the kids up from school. DJ and Reagan freaked when they saw Auntie Bwittwee!! They did not stop talking the whole way back to dads house. They told her every single thing they did at school. We were cracking up! They watched a movie, ate popcorn, played with friends, did crafts and a bunch of other fun stuff preschoolers do!

I can't believe thanksgiving is six days away... We were invited to one of Dave's coworkers house for brunch. The guys are going to play football and the moms are going to have the kids do some crafts :) Then it's off to my dads house and my sister and I will cook everything.. Which means the guys get to clean!! My sister and I make sure we dirty every little thing hahaha!!

Sunday I am going to do my usual thankful week posts! This will be my 3rd year doing it :) Also, don't forget about my giveaway that ends tomorrow!!!!

Have a great weekend!!!

Seriously Thursday...

2011-11-17T07:28:00.000-08:00

- How can thanksgiving be one whole week away?!? Didn't we just have halloween? I am ready to grub on some yummy food!!!

- I have already looked up all of the black friday ads for next week.. And, already made my plan of attack! hahaha

- The kids have the whole week off next week.. Lets hope I dont go crazy!!

- The kids are getting sick, again... I can not stand having sick kids!! Runny Noses are the worst.. *gag*

- I have all of my lists for the holiday season ready... I'm a big list maker.. haha

- Just ordered some cute stuff at Plum District! And Letters from Santa for the kids!!

- My Giveaway ends on Saturday!! So go comment and enter!!

Adding to the Giveaway!!!

2011-11-15T17:32:00.000-08:00

So I thought I would add a few more things to the Giveaway!!!

Just to make it FUN!!

Each Calendar will come with

- Two (2) $10 Shopping Cards to Plum District!

Plum District has great deals For Moms, By Moms!

I just got a bunch of goodies for the kids for christmas & Allen's Birthday!!

I can't wait for them to come in the mail!!

-------------------------

So to update you on the Giveaway..

Each Winner will receive:

- One (1) 12 Month Photo Wall Calendar

- Two (2) $10 Shopping Cards to Plum District

*All of the Rules/Entries still apply!

Click Here to go to the Giveaway!!!

Good Luck!!!!

First Movie in a Theater!!

2011-11-14T06:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I decided to take DJ to the movies for the first time! He got a gift card to the movies for his birthday and I figured it was a great day to go!

Every time the Puss in Boots movie trailer came on the tv, he would get so excited! So I asked him what movie he wanted to see, of course he said Puss in Boots! So we got ready and then we were off to the movies!!

When we got to the theater, I got him a kid pak {popcorn, soda & fruit snack} and me a soda. We got our stuff and headed in. We picked up a booster seat for him and got him situated in his seat, popcorn in lap and he was good to go!

In the beginning, he said it was a little loud but nothing bad. Once the movie started, he was glued to the screen. He would laugh at the funny parts and tell me about what was going on.. Lol all in all, he did amazing!! I thought he would have wanted to get up and move around or leave, but he stayed seated! He got up 3 times because his booster seat was sliding and his butt was getting sore... LoL

So his first time at a movie was perfect!! I am so proud he did so well :) Next Sunday, I am taking Reagan to Build A Bear for her late birthday present :) Yay!!

Don't forget about my Photo Calendar Giveaway!! Six more days!!

Photo Wall Calendar Giveaway!

2011-11-13T05:30:00.000-08:00

This year I am making Wall Photo Calendars for the

grandparents & aunts/uncles!

I have been busy all week going through discs and trying to find

the perfect pictures for each of the different calendars.

I am going to be making a total of seven calendars, including ours!

This is the first year I am using Shutterfly for their calendars.

I have made Allen's Birth Announcements & Christmas Cards last year.

I am currently working on the Calendars, Christmas Cards

and Allen's Birthday Invites!

I think photo calendars are great gifts!

They are sentimental and it shows that it came from the heart!

This is why I am giving away Two,

Yes Two, 12 month Wall Photo Calendars!!

&

Two (2) $10 Plum District Shopping Cards!!

Are you excited?!?

Cause I am!!!

------------------------------
Updated:

Each Winner will receive:
- One (1) 12 Month Photo Wall Calendar
&
- Two (2) $10 Shopping Cards to Plum District

Rules:

- Giveaway starts on November 13th {today}

Ends on November 19th.

- Must be a follower of my blog.

- Winners will be determined per Random.org

and will be announced on November 20th.

- Two winners are determined, please respond within 48 hours

or a next person(s) will be chosen.

- Please read the rules/entries carefully.

- Leave a comment for each entry.

Entries:

Mandatory

1. Tell me what your favorite holiday ritual is? If you do not have one, What would you like to start? {1 entry}

Extras

1. Like "Adventures in Mommy Land" on Facebook.

{2 entries = 2 comments}

2. Tweet about this Giveaway and let me know you did.

{2 entries = 2 comments}

* you can tweet once a day and leave a comment each day

3. Blog about this Giveaway and let me know you did.

{2 entries = 2 comments}

* you can blog once a day and leave a comment each day

4. Place my Blog Button on your blog.

{3 entries = 3 comments}

Good Luck!!

Disclaimer - I was not paid to do this giveaway. All things stated are of my opinion only.

I'm not ready...

2011-11-12T18:18:00.000-08:00

Cleaning..

Organizing..

Holiday Chat..

Things have been so busy these past few weeks. The holidays are fast approaching, plans are being made and I haven't even started Christmas shopping {gasp, I know!} I have one thing for both DJ and Reagan, but that's it. I usually do all of my shopping on Black Friday, and will more than likely do it in a few weeks..

I'm still not ready.

I had DJ and Reagan go through the Toys r Us website and point to what they liked.. They must have picked out at least fifty things.. lol There are a few things that I definitely am getting them. They need some learning toys since DJ will be entering Kindergarten and Reagan will be in her 2nd year of Preschool. The kids love to learn and I love it!!

Here are a few things I would like to get them!!

Allen -

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn CD Player..

Playskool Poppin' Park Elefun Busy Ball Popper..

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn - Learning Puppy..

Reagan -

Baby Alive Doll..

VTech InnoTab Learning Tablet - Pink..

Barbie Glam Convertible..

DJ -

VTech InnoTab Learning Tablet - Blue..

Home Depot Big Builder's Workshop..

Cars 2 Walkie Talkies..

For stocking stuffers, I am going to get them pencils, tracing paper and other writing things to help them learn how to write!!!

Not to mention all of the Power Ranger, Barbie, Mickey Mouse, Batman, Baby Dolls, Loud Music Playing Toys....

***Don't Forget!!! My Giveaway starts Tomorrow!!!!!!***

Have a great night!

Thank a Hero

2011-11-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

Words cant express the gratitude I have to those who have served and are currently serving. Your selflessness for your country is inspiration. I'm appreciate each and every one of you for what you do and/or have done.

A special Thank You to the important Veterans/Marines in my life:

Dad

Grandpa Kenny

Uncle Mike

Uncle Pete

And a big Good Luck to my Cousin Kenny who heads to

San Diego for Boot Camp in a few days!

Pinterest, Can you be my Wardrobe?

2011-11-10T09:45:00.000-08:00

I am a true addict when it comes to Pinterest.. That little place of joy has me sucked in for hours.

So, since I have lost 30lbs.. {Yep! Thirty Pounds..} I am putting together my Ultimate Goal Wardrobe! I want all of the adorable clothes that are on there.. *le sigh* None of my clothes fit me anymore.. They are either too big or still a hair too small. I am trying to hold off until Christmas to buy clothes.

Here are some of my faves!!

{Love the Teal w/ Grey!}

{I love the brightness of the yellow!!}

{This would be perfect for a Christmas Outfit!!}

{Again, I love this yellow!}

{This top is darling!}

{The nude look is very classic!}

{Oh Coral, I love this color!}

{all images are from my Pinterest }

Every year, my family asks me what I want for Christmas, I always tell them to just spend it on the kids.. Not this year baby! Mama Needs Some New Clothes!!

If you would like to follow my weight loss blog, Click Here :)

Parent/Teacher Conferences...

2011-11-09T15:58:00.000-08:00

Today we had DJ and Reagan's Parent/Teacher Conference at school. Both kids are doing great!

We will start with DJ:

DJ is a very bright young boy. He knows all of the sounds each letter makes and was told that nobody else in the class has mastered this yet. {proud mama} He is starting to read words and write them out. He does like to go from task to task without picking up, but is working on it in school. We are also working on it with him at home, also. He does have his moments at school about sharing and being disruptive, but what preschooler doesn't?! He likes to rush eating and teeth brushing so he can play, but is slowly getting better at waiting. All in all, he is right on track with everything!

Reagan's turn:

Reagan is a smart little girl too! Her teacher is still trying to get her to fully open up to her when it come to Reagan asking for things and using her words. She is the complete opposite of DJ. She is very quiet when it comes to learning or if she is shy/embarrassed. Her teacher said that, when they are in circle time, she will ask questions and Reagan will look at her but not say anything. You can tell she gets it because of her facial expressions, but she doesn't know how to put what she wants to say into words/sentences. She is still pretty young, so her teacher is not worried at all. Reagan has no problem at all with staying on task {just like mama}. She loves to help in any way she can! She loves to have a "job" at school and gets so sad if she doesn't get one that day. Her favorite's are Song Helper, Teacher Helper and Soap Helper. :)

Both kids still get speech at school two times a week. Reagan will definitely need it again next school year too.

Today was also Picture Day! And in true DJ fashion, He did not want me to touch his hair. So it looks like DJ will have a cow-lick in all of his photos.. He also wanted to wear this hideous Yeti shirt.. Eh Memories, I guess.. Reagan of course wanted to wear her Sleeping Beauty shirt with the tulle flower. Such a girly girl!

I can't wait to see them!! I told the lady that I want to view the pictures before I bought them, just in case! I'm sure they will turn out great! My kids are so photogenic and love to have their pictures taken...

Have a great week!

Sleep, What's that??

2011-11-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

I honestly think that the person who invented Day Light Savings, did not have children..

My kids are getting up earlier than before the time change. Allen has been waking up at 5am every morning for the past few days. It's driving me crazy cause I'm usually the one who has to stay up with him, which makes it a very long day.. They want to get up at 5am and play wii or ask for Halloween candy.. What is wrong with my kids?? haha

The past few days have been horrible. Yesterday I woke up with my left cheek looking like it was smuggling a baseball and in excruciating pain. The night before, the kids and i were eating popcorn and i bit down on a kernel and instantly felt pain. So my dad came over and watched the kids while Dave took me to the ER, since nothing was taking the pain away. When we got there, it was like a ghost town.. I saw the ER dr fast. I told them what had happened and he did an exam.

{I feel as bad as I look :( }

Come to find out, My filling came out and my tooth became abscessed. I have never had an abscess tooth, and oh my goodness I never want one again! I told Dave that I would rather go through child birth again, than have a toothache.. No joke! I think the last filling I had done was when I was 12 or 13 years old.. So I got a perscription for antibiotics and pain killers. So now I am just waiting for the dentist office to open so I can make an appt.. Yay..

okay, enough with my poor me post..

This coming up month I will have a fun holiday giveaway and I already have a few blog posts lined up!

I am so ready for Christmas!!!

Happy Ten Months, Allen! {double digits!}

2011-11-06T01:37:00.000-07:00

We have hit the double digits! I can not believe that he is ten months already.. Where has the time gone?

In just two short months, I will have a one year old.. *sigh*

I know I say this every month, but it seems like just yesterday we were going into the hospital for my induction. He is growing so fast and learning so much. He hardly ever stops moving and loves to explore anything and everything.

Allen currently weighs 21lbs 8oz and is 30 1/4in long. He is growing like a weed! He is in 12mo clothes and some 18mo tops. He is in size 3 huggies and will probably be there for at least 3 more months. He is an amazing walker and loves to have his freedom. He also plays great by himself with a few toys! Allen is a great napper, when the kids are at school or quiet. He will sleep on average 1 1/2 hours each nap. He usually takes two naps, one in the morning and one in the late afternoon. Night time is a different story. He still wakes up 1-2 times a night for a few ounces and then he is back out. We are trying to break the night feedings, but its pretty hard. He will scream until we either give in or he wakes the other two up.. So we just deal with it..

Allen eats three meals a day plus snacks throughout the day. His favorite foods are all veggies, all fruits, noodles, meat, eggs and my french toast.. He basically eats whatever we eat, just really cut up.. lol He will eat the Gerber Graduates a couple times a week too. His favorite snacks are mum mum's, gold fish, cheerios & puffs. He would eat the yogurt melts, but we noticed that he would have horrible gas. So we are holding off on those for a little bit. He usually has four 8oz bottles during the day and juice or water in sippy cups. He did have his first sucker and peanut butter cup yesterday, courtesy of DJ and Reagan.. He screamed when I took it all away!

- Allen loves to wave at anyone who looks at him, its too funny. He is such a happy little guy! One day Allen was signing "all done" and Dave thought he was just waving at him... hahahaha I laughed so hard!

- Allen now has six teeth! Four on the bottom and two on top. He is getting fussy so I think he might have more teeth coming in.

- He doesn't really crawl anymore. If he is not walking, he is running.. {no joke} He sees Reagan and DJ running around, so he tries to do it too. He is also trying to master jumping in place.. hahaha

- He loves to follow you around and hates to be by himself in a room. He will freak out if he doesn't see myself, the kids or Dave in the same room, or at least in eye sight..

- Whenever he sees the kids doing something funny, he will laugh hysterically. He even laughs at funny parts in cartoons.. This kid is too funny!

- Allen loves to dance and play with his siblings. I will put music on and he will get down! It is by far the cutest thing ever! He can really hold his own when he is playing too. All three will play in the room for hours together :) I love it!

- His favorite toys right now are his blocks, sensory balls, books and his new music table thingy. Oh I cant forget he likes to use Dave and myself as jungle gyms..

- Allen is such a chatterbox1 He will be in his seat in the car and just talking away. His favorite words are Mama, Dada, Papa, Baba, No No, Nun Nun {nummies} and Ball.. When he is tired, its always mamama mamama... ;)

Happy Ten Months, Love Bug!!!

Halloween Recap....

2011-11-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

So for some reason my Halloween post disappeared.. *Boo!*

Anyways, The kids had a blast trick or treating and got 5lbs of candy each.. Yeah that is a lot for a 3 & 4 year old...

While the kids were still in school, my sister, allen and myself went to the pumpkin patch to get a few more pumpkins.. A lot of them were getting bad spots and we only found 2 to my sisters liking.. lol Allen had fun walking around and had to touch every.single.pumpkin. in arms reach.

When the kids got home from school, they got to gut their pumpkins.. They were all for it till they touched the insides.. hahaha I told them that they had to do at least half of it, then I would do the rest.

After that, they got to help auntie make chocolate chip cookies! They love helping anyone who is willing to let them. Then it was nap time!! Auntie can get them to sleep faster than I can.. hahaha

While they napped, my sister and I carved the pumpkins and ran to the store to get a few things. I decided to get some blue hair spray stuff to put in Allens hair. haha At about 5:30 we decided to wake the kids up and get them dressed and ready for trick or treating. They were so excited and were asking "is it time yet?" anout five dozen times in a 20 minute time span..

Finally it was time!!!

The kids, dave and myself headed out and we got to about 2 houses and allen starts to freak out. So dave took allen back to the house to feed him and I took the kids. My sister met up about an hour later and was surprised at how much candy the kids already had.. hahaha

After about two hours of trick or treating, the kids were wiped out! We always trick or treat my dads house last :)

Hope everyone had a great night!!!

Writing your name..

2011-10-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

So Dave and I were talking about how fast Christmas is approaching.. I told him it's only four paychecks away and that I better get my shopping done. He looked at me and shook his head. Haha

I love this time of year, but I also have to be savvy when shopping for gifts. I read that walmart is doing the holiday layaway, which is pretty neat. You only have to pay 10% of your purchases + $5 processing fee. You can only use it for Toys, Electronics & Jewelry.. I really want to get DJ & Reagan Leap Pads! I'm sure they would love them! I really want to focus on learning toys since DJ will be in kindergarten next year and Reagan will be going into her 2nd year of preschool.

I started to write her name out and her trace it last night. We really need to work on her name. I want her to be able to write it by summer. DJ learned how to write his name last year at school. I was shocked and so very proud when he showed me the very first time :)

She is trying but gets side tracked easily!

I cant believe how big the kids are getting. It truly amazes me at how much they know and absorbed since starting school.

They are not babies anymore *le sigh*

I have a lot of fun blogs lined up for next week!

So, Stay Tuned!!

Field Trip to the Fire Station!!

2011-10-26T04:37:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, the kids had their first big field trip of the year! We went to the Fire Station!! DJ was on cloud nine while we were there. When we got there, the fire chief split the class up in two groups.. Boys & Girls. I left DJ with the boys and his teacher, and I followed Reagan. The girls were having so much fun and got so excited when they actually got to sit in the fire truck!! I took lots of pics and then it was the boys turn to come out and the girls went back inside to learn more stuff!

The very first thing I hear when the boys are walking in is "I want to drive the fire truck!" Wanna guess whose child that was??? If you guessed mine, you are absolutely correct... Sheesh! While the boys were being shown around the trucks, one of the moms came up and said "You will never guess what DJ did!" I'm thinking, oh my god what did he break?? {hey, I'm being honest!} She said the fireman asked the boys "What number should you dial in an emergency?"

{Well, let me tell you how proud this momma right here is!!}

She told me that DJ raised his hand and said "991" Everyone kept asking him again, to see if he would switch one of those nines to a one.. So finally, they gave him a marker and told him to write it on the board... He walked up and wrote:

9-1-1

He knew what was up, just a little confused..

I don't remember ever teaching him that, total bad mommy moment, right?! After everyone got to sit in the fire truck and got to look in them, the girls came in and everyone got fire hats and stickers!

We wanted to show the kids that if they were ever in an emergency situation, they shouldn't be afraid of them. So one of the fire fighters started putting on the pants and then the jacket. The chief asked the kids if they thought he was scary, and of course they said no. Once he got the oxygen tank and mask on, some of the kids started scooting back and also looking for a parent. The guy then got on his hands and knees and went to every child and gave them knuckles! Some were hesitant and just smiled and the others were so excited. When he got to Allen, oh boy did he freak out! I had to actually get him out of his stroller and calm him down haha

All of the kids are still talking about how they saw a fire truck and got to sit in them! It's the little things that make children so happy!

This Friday we have a field trip to the Pumpkin Patch!! We are going to the same one we go to every year and the one that I have been going to since I was a baby!!

Just a few pictures!!!

Enjoy!!!!

Sunday Funday!!

2011-10-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

These past few weekends have been pretty busy with birthdays, baby showers and lunch dates.. And there is no end in sight for at least 3 more weeks. We went to one of the kids preschool friends birthday yesterday at Bounce U! Everyone had a blast, even the parents.. It's a workout for the parents trying to go through all of the obstacles while the kids were racing up them with ease.. That's when you know you're getting old..

Here are some fun pics from the party!

{DJ & Logan playing with the air gun things..}

{Allen not too sure of all the commotion...}

{Autumn & Reagan.. Besties!!}

{Allen wasn't sure of the bounce house..}

{All of the dads trying to climb this.. The middle was stretchy so it was hard to climb..}

{DJ helping out his buddy!}

{Allen would not let go of that ball.. hahaha}

{Of course, my husband has to act like the biggest kid there..!}

{Allen Momma & DJ in the background..}

{Eating cupcakes.. These two were attached at the hip..}

{Birthday Fun!}

{He got to try a little frosting... Wasn't a big fan..}

I am so debating on having DJ & Reagan's party here next year! No clean up and everyone else does the work!! But, we will see ;)

Shutterfly Holiday Cards!!!

2011-10-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

Yay!! Its that time of year again!!

I love making {Christmas Cards} with Shutterfly! They have such an amazing variety and you are definitely able to find something. I know I had such a hard time deciding on which one to use, cause I liked so many of them! Here is the card I used last year:

We use {Shutterfly} for all of our occasions :) I made Allen's Birth announcements with it earlier this year and everyone loved them. I was amazed by how great they came out!

I am planning on using Shutterfly again this year and picking out one of their adorable {Holiday Photo Cards}... There are so many to choose from. Here are a few of the ones that I have been looking at...

I am also thinking about making the grandparents some {Photo Gifts}. I love the totes, aprons and coffee mugs! Shutterfly has so many great photo gifts for everyone in your family!

I am currently working on the kids {Photo Books} for every year since birth! I have four done so far! I cant wait to get them all done and they will be great keepsakes for when they get older!

So.. Go check out {Shutterfly} and send some beautiful holiday cards out this season!!!

If you are a blogger, Go {HERE} and you too can get 25 FREE Holiday Cards!!! Hurry. Like, Right Now!!!

Also, a big thanks to Shutterfly!!!

Allen' 9 month check up...

2011-10-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

This morning Allen had his 9 month check up :)

I can not believe how big he is getting. He is into everything and loves to play with DJ & Reagan in the kids room and can pretty much hold his own in there.

So here are the stats of Mr. Allen:

Birth:

Weight: 7lbs 7 oz
Length: 20in long
Head: don't remember

9 1/2 Months:

Weight: 20lbs 9oz
Length: 30in long
Head: 47cm

Yes, this guy is super tall!

Off to my dr appt now :)

Busy Mama...!

2011-10-16T00:12:00.000-07:00

Testing from my iPod touch ;)

Tomorrow we have another birthday party to go to for the kids. I'm excited because its at a park and the kids can run and tire themselves out! We are booked every sunday for birthdays, baby showers, coffee dates, family pics and playdates until the third week of november.

Hope you all have a fabulous Sunday!!!!!

Out with the old...

2011-10-12T13:34:00.000-07:00

And..

In with the new!

Our new sofa came today!!! My dad was here at 4:45 this morning, that way Dave was able to help him get our sectional out before he had to go to work. We cleaned it last night and it is now over at my dads house :)

We bought that sectional when we lived in a bigger place. Now that we are in a smaller place, we had absolutely no room. So we had a chance to get a new couch and jumped at the opportunity! {Thank You!}

So here is our new sofa!!

I need to move stuff around and get it where I want it!

I love it!

Halloween Time!!

2011-10-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

The kids were invited to one of their classmates birthday parties on saturday :) It was a Halloween theme party and everyone had to dress up! All of the kids looked so cute in their costumes and even the adults looked good!

I can't believe Halloween is in a few weeks!!

I love this time of year!!

Happy Nine Months, Allen! {a day late}

2011-10-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

Nine Months of Cuddles..

Nine Months of Laughter..

Nine Months of Pure Happiness..

I can't believe our little man is nine months old already! He has officially been out of my body longer than inside! I realized that a few days ago and couldn't believe it. I told Dave that and he said that my pregnancy didn't seem to go that fast.. haha

Allen is a fabulous eater and will practically eat anything you put in front of him. He doesn't heat baby food anymore and eats what we eat. His favorite snacks are Mum Mums and Arrowroot Cookies. He was introduced to the yogurt melts yesterday and loved them! He is still on Up & Up formula and has four 8oz bottles a day. He loves getting juice or water in a sippy, too!

This little guy is such a ham! His personality has just soared and will laugh at anything. He is already in 12 month clothes and jammies. I can squeeze him into some of his 9 month clothes, but for the most part, they are all packed up. At a check up a few weeks ago, he was weighing 20lbs 8oz and 29 3/4 inches tall.. He goes in for his 9 month check up on the 19th. He is still in size 3 diapers, also.

His sleep schedule is about the same.. He is still waking up 1-2x a night for a bottle. I am going to try to get rid of the extra feedings in the middle of the night. During the day he takes 2 naps. One when we get home from dropping the kids off at school and one in the afternoon around 2p. He loves his naps, they usually range from 2-3.5 hours! He can recognize everyone. When we ask him where dj, reagan, daddy, mommy, etc. are, he will look straight at you and wave :)

Allen has learned a lot these past few weeks! For instance, he loves to play peek a boo! We usually do this when we are changing his diaper. He will cover his face with his pants and quickly show his face and we say boo! He thinks its the funniest thing. He loves to wave at anything and everything. If someone comes up to him in the store, he will wave :) Allen also started WALKING about a week ago! I couldn't believe it when I saw him let go of the coffee table and start walking.. {video will be at the bottom} Allen is a complete chatterbox. He loves to talk and just make noise.. He can say mama, baba, papa, dada, mum mum {for food}.. He loves to yell and then tap his mouth with his hand, I can't describe it, but you know what I mean.. hahaha

He tried escaping throughout the photo taking... Little Stinker!!

I Love You, Allen James!!!!

Trike-A-Thon....

2011-10-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

Weekend Fun..

2011-09-25T16:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took Reagan with me to the Farmers Market by our house to get some goodies..

She had so much fun getting samples and helping me pick everything out. We picked up some Corn, Carrots, Zucchini, Squash, Grapes, Nectarines, Cantaloupe and Strawberries :) Right when we got into the car, she was asking for strawberries. Luckily I had some water, so I rinsed two off and gave them to her. Before we got out of the mall parking lot, she had already devoured them and was asking for more.. lol Last night I made some of the zucchini and squash that I got, oh my goodness it was so yummy! The kids loved it too.

This weather today is crazy, but I love it!! I am so ready for fall and cooler weather. Instead of going out and enjoying it, I deep cleaned half the house. It needed to be done. I have a lot of stuff to toss out and get ready for our new furniture. Tomorrow I will be cleaning our carpets tackling the kids room. They have way too many toys and only play with 1/4 of them. I will probably do that when they are in school... sneaky momma!

Hope you all have a fabulous week!!

My Peanut Girl...

2011-09-22T12:50:00.000-07:00

Today Reagan had her 3 year check up!

Stats:

Weight: 29lbs
Height: 36in

She is finally gaining!! She also had a finger poke and her chicken pox vax. This tough girl didn't even flinch!

Have a great day!!!

p.s. I have updated my weight loss blog.. :)

Buzz Buzz...

2011-09-15T07:27:00.000-07:00

1. What’s your sign?

I am a Virgo :)

2. Is your style more modern or traditional?

I would probably consider myself more modern, But I love being traditional too!

3. What's your favorite game to play?

One of my favorite board games is Life... For the Wii, it has to be Just Dance 2 :)

4. What’s your favorite book?

What do you do all day & The Lauren Conrad Series.. Hush, no judging! haha

5. Name one celebrity you would love to be friends with.

Probably Pink or Jenny McCarthy! Thats a hard question!

6. What brand of makeup do you own most of?

I would have to say its a tie between Mac and SmashBox.. Love makeup!

7. Do you like reality shows?

Me, Like Reality Shows?!? Oh Jeeze, I love them!! I get sucked into all of them!

8. What’s your favorite flavor of kool-aid?

NONE! I can not stand Kool-aid.. My husband on the other hand, loves it.. {gag}

9. What’s your favorite type of gum?

Probably Juicy Fruit and the Cinnamon one!

10. Do you prefer an A-line, Empire, Mermaid, or Princess style gown?

I love the Mermaid look, I just wish I could pull it off!!!

Down with the Sickness...

2011-09-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling cruddy for the past week with a head cold and now the lingering cough that wont go away... The head cold is finally going away but this cough is driving me absolutely crazy...

The other night I had chicken thawed but had no idea what to make with it. I was looking in my cupboards and found some sliced pineapple. So here is what I whipped up and it came out so delish!!!

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts

1 can sliced pineapples

1/4 cup brown sugar

1. Pour the juice in the bottom of a oven safe bowl or pyrex. I used my DeMarle Large Round Mold.

2. Lay the chicken in the bowl.

3. Place the sliced pineapple ontop of the chicken.

4. Bake chicken for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

5. After 40 minutes, Sprinkle the brown sugar on the chicken and bake till done.

6. Enjoy!!!

101 things to do with your kids!

2011-09-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

These look like a lot of fun!! I want to do every single one of these with the kids!!!

1. Color
2. Blow Bubbles
3. Play Hide-and-Seek
4. Peek-a-Boo
5. Play Chase
6. Do Finger-plays
7. Sing a song
8. Collect rocks in a basket
9. Make an obstacle course out of cushions and/or furniture
10. Make a fort out of cushions and sheets
11. Go for a Walk
12. Make a Car out of a Box
13. Read a book
14. Go to the park
15. Finger-paint
16. Play with Play-Dough
17. Toss Bean bags into a Bucket
18. Play the shell and pea game
19. Dance to music
20. Download games for toddlers from the Internet
21. Practice putting things in and taking things out of boxes and bags
22. Make a temporary slide out of a table leaf and your couch
23. Roll a ball back and forth on the floor
24. Scoop dirt or sand into a child's bucket (or use a serving spoon and bowl)
25. Practice climbing by stacking boxes on top of each other (only with adult supervision)
26. Put on a puppet show
27. Go fishing with a yard stick and yarn
28. Make a Horseshoe game
29. Make a Shape Puzzle
30. Play paper basketball
31. Run through a Sprinkler
32. Play with a bucket of water and a sponge (PLEASE WATCH CHILD AT ALL TIMES!)
33. Make a Drum out of an oatmeal box
34. Play with a kazoo
35. Wash windows together
36. Bang on Pots and Pans with a spoon
37. Brush each other's teeth
38. Play dress-up with stuffed animals and your child's clothes
39. Stack canned or boxed food on top of each other
40. Let child stack mixing bowls inside each other
41. Make a playhouse out of a large box
42. Let child play with a sticker sheet (make sure your child doesn't eat them!)
43. Put stickers on fingers for finger puppets
44. Play a musical instrument together- i.e.recorder, piano, etc.
45. Go on a Smelling Hunt
46. Frost Cookies
47. Plant a flower or vegetable plant together
48. Roll a tennis ball into an empty trash can or bucket
49. Draw on a mirror with dry-erase markers
50. Play hide and seek together- trying to find a stuffed animal or other object
51. Have a splash party together in the bathtub
52. Put a leash on a stuffed animal and walk around the house
53. Record each other on a tape recorder (great for scrapbooks or journals!)
54. Make and try on paper hats
55. Give a piggy-back ride
56. Play "Horsey"
57. Talk into an electric fan (it distorts your voice)
58. Play tug-of-war with a blanket
59. Collect flowers (felt, artificial, real...)
60. Make a camera and go on a Safari
61. Play games with frozen juice lids
62. Disconnect your phone and pretend to make phone calls to relatives
63. Leave your phone connected and really make phone calls to relatives- let your child talk too
64. String large beads onto or along a shoelace
65. Squirt each other with squirt bottles
66. Glue shapes onto paper
67. Make sock puppets
68. Make paper puppets
69. Fill an old purse with toys
70. Use a paper towel tube as a megaphone
71. Make binoculars and go "Bird Watching" or "Stuffed Animal Watching"
72. Put snacks in different fun containers (paper sacks, empty canisters, etc.)
73. Act out a story from a book
74. Walk on a balance beam- use a 2x4 placed on the ground
75. Draw with chalk on the sidewalk
76. Sketch an outline of your child on the sidewalk or paper with chalk
77. Paint child's palms with tempura paint and blot on paper. Makes a great card for loved ones!
78. Put lipstick on child and kiss a mirror
79. Make a puddle on cement and splash barefoot in it
80. Let child decorate and eat an open peanut butter sandwich
81. Make a toilet paper barricade for child to go under, over, or through
82. Do the Hokey Pokey
83. Make a super-hero costume out of household items
84. Do Knee-Bouncing Rhymes
85. Play "Red Light, Green Light" saying "Go" and "Stop"
86. Make a shoe-box train for stuffed animals
87. Make a pillow pile to jump on (keep it clear from any hard surfaces, including walls!)
88. Make an easy puzzle with felt and Velcro
89. Make bracelets or collars for stuffed animals out of pipe cleaners and jingle bells
90. Learn numbers from a deck of cards
91. Play the matching game with a deck of cards
92. Make a domino chain
93. Have a picnic in the park, backyard, or living room!
94. Play dress up in Mommy or Daddy's clothes
95. Make a tin cup telephone and talk to each other in it
96. Make a nature collage
97. Mirror each other
98. Make a "Mummy Mommy" with toilet paper
99. Make a tape recording of short music selections and instructions to move in different ways
100. Make and walk along a toilet paper trail
101. TAKE A NAP!

Enjoy!

Never Forgotten..

2011-09-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

Do YOU Remember where you were on 9/11?

I was getting ready for my 2nd week of my senior year in high school. I was getting ready at home and my dad called me and told me to turn on the TV. He said that if I wanted to stay home I could. When I was at school, Every single TV was on, In every classroom.

It was such a sad day. There were students and teachers crying because they had family in New York and couldnt get ahold of them. No one did any work that day, everyone was just glued to the TV.

10 months later, My sister and I took a road trip with our Gramma and flew to Tennessee and we drove from her house in Tennessee to each state on the northern east coast. We stopped in NYC and saw Ground Zero. It was amazing at how much they had done and how big the area was. It was so sad to actually be standing where it had all went down just 10 short months prior...

Where were YOU were on 9/11??

Last night I was watching all of the documentaries and reliving 10 years ago.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

- Deuteronomy 31:6

30 day mom challenge...

2011-09-11T00:10:00.001-07:00

I will be starting a 30 day mom challenge soon!!!

I will keep you posted!!

So be on the look out!

Pinterest Love...

2011-09-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

Talk about Addiction...

I am on Pinterest a few times a day.. Mostly when the kids are napping or at school :)

Here are some of the things I will be doing within the next few weeks!

The Buzz..

2011-09-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

1. Have you ever quit a bad habit?

Yes! I quit smoking! When I found out I was pregnant, I quit cold turkey and never went back! I am very proud of myself and I am trying to get my husband to stop too. He smokes at work but not at home. Drives me crazy!

2. What is the most unique or exotic animal you have owned?

I have only owned Cats & Dogs. My ex had a Ball Python Snake and I absolutely hated it!

3. What kind of computer do you use?

We have a Acer Computer. We are planning on getting our own laptops within a few months.

4. What was/will be the color scheme at your wedding?

We didn't have one, We had a shotgun wedding in South Lake Tahoe when I was 37 weeks pregnant. I am planning our big wedding and the colors are oranges, greens, yellows.. Our anniversary is in may, so I want a spring feel.

5. What was the last song you heard today?

Can it be a kids song? If so, Dinosaur Train.. My kids are home sick today and we are watching PBS Kids :)

6. What is the city/town you live in most famous for?

Well, I live about 30 minutes from the California State Capitol.

7. What kind of person were you in high school?

I was friends with everyone. If I could, I would totally do high school all over again!

8. What is your lucky number?

My lucky number is 8

9. If you had to go 30 days eating only one thing, what would you choose to eat?

Probably watermelon or Zucchini... Yum!

10. What is your favorite Bath & Body Works scent?

Ummm.. I would have to say Tangerine or the Sweet Pea. I have not been into a B&BW in a loooong time.

Happy Eight Months, Allen!

2011-09-06T06:15:00.000-07:00

How is it my baby is 8 months old already?!?!? Time is surely flying by!

I love you sweetie pie!!!
{pictures will be later}

Baby Stats
-------
Sleep
We need to talk about this, Little Man.
You have regressed back to a 1 month old.. You have been waking up ever few hours wanting a bottle or just want to get up and play.. This is making for rough nights and days for momma.. Also, 5:30 wake up screeches are not acceptable.. ;) You used to sleep so well, can we please go back to that?!?

Daily Routine
Since your brother and sister are back in school, I am trying to get our routine set. But we all know that will probably not happen.. After dropping bro & sis off, we come home and eat, play, have a few diaper changes and then its already time for pick up. When we get back home you will all nap and momma cleans the house. We need to get our routine back, hopefully within the next few weeks it will fall back into place :)

Feed
You absolutely love food and will eat almost anything! You will even find crumbs left from your bro and sis.. Grosses me out.. Your faves are:

Apricot w/ Apples
Strawberry Banana
Macaroni w/ Beef & Veggies {gag}
Sweet Potatoes
Mum Mum's
Spaghetti
Eggs {We are slowly introducing :) }

Weight
Birth: 7lbs 7oz
2 weeks: 8lbs 3oz {50th Percentile}
1 month: 9lbs 6oz {45th Percentile}Home Scale.
2 months: 11lbs 4oz {50th Percentile}
3 months: 13lbs 7oz {35th Percentile}
4 months: 14lbs 8oz {25th Percentile}
5 months: 16lbs 2oz {30th Percentile} Home Scale.
6 months: 17lbs 4oz {30th Percentile} Home Scale.
7 months: 20lbs 8oz {40th Percentile} Home Scale.
8 months: 19lbs 14oz {40th Percentile}

Length
Birth: 20 inches
2 weeks: 21 1/4 inches {90th Percentile}
1 month: 22 inches {70th Percentile}
2 months: 24 inches {95th Percentile}
3 months: 25 3/4 inches {95th Percentile}
4 months: 26 1/4 inches {95th Percentile}
5 months: 28 inches {95th Percentile}
6 months: 28 1/2 inches {95th Percentile}
7 months: 28 3/4 inches {95th Percentile}
8 months: 29 1/4 inches {100th Percentile}

Diapers
I bought some of the Huggies Slip-On Diapers for you and so far they are great. Daddy doesn't really like them because you try and escape.. hahaha He just doesn't know the secret technique yet... Still in size 3's :)

Clothes
You are comfortably wearing 9/12 month clothes for just about everything. Your length has a lot to do with it. You are such a long child and definitely get it from daddy. You are also in between size 3/4 for shoes.. Chunky Feet!

Hair Color
Birth: Lots of Black Hair...
Currently: Blonde Hair w/ brown low lights ;)

Eye Color
Birth: Steel Grey
Currently: Blue..

Milestones
This ~~big~~ little boy took 2 steps the other day at papa's house.. I swear I just about had a heart attack! I guess he thinks that since he is the youngest, he has to do everything earlier that his bro & sis... Well, momma and sister started walking at 8 months, so I guess he has to too.. Lord help me!

Favorite Toys
Teething Keys
Hands
Feet
Links
Anything that makes noise
Anything he can get his hands on!

♥ Happy Eight Months, Allen!! ♥