Bon jour

Absolutely my kid...

2012-01-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

There is not doubt that this kid, while not flesh of my flesh, shares a giant piece of my heart and soul. In so many ways he is identical to me, with many of the same quirks. He shares a love for clothes and shoes that potentially surpasses mine.

Underneath the skinny jeans and the "skater tees" there is a huge heart. When he learned that TOMS shoes gives one pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair you buy, he says, "Mom, what if we buy 10 pairs, and I just keep one... that's 19 pairs that goes to the kids who need them more than we do."

Mr. Boy shows off his favorite shoes.

And when we have looked online at the petfinder website for the missing dog in our lives, he becomes so concerned for the animals he sees... "Mom, if we don't get that dog, who will take care of it?" As he lies in bed that night, he frets and worries about the homeless pets.

Relax little one, enjoy your childhood, the time is fleeting and their is ample time to solve the worlds problems. I have no doubt that this child of mine will grow up to do great things and try to make the world a better place.

Where does "YES" take you?

2012-01-22T22:43:00.000-08:00

My motto for the new year is to to say YES more often when it comes to fun. Interestingly, after declaring my new motto of "Yes Please!" aka The Yes Project. I got a phone call from my super fun friend who said, "Would you and Mr. Man like to join us at the Monster Truck Rally?" I wouldn't exactly say I'm the Monster Truck type, nor would I say that it is something I've ever really desired to do.

But I said, "Yes, we'd love too!" And I got my first taste of things I have been missing out on. First off, it wasn't just any old Monster Truck Rally in nosebleed seats, it was a Monster Truck Rally with seats in a private luxury suite at the stadium! Oh the irony of it all. Thank you Microsemi! I promise to use you for all my micro semi conductor needs.

It was unbelievably fun, and I can't even describe how much I laughed, screamed, and cheered. My voice was hoarse for three days.

I found myself leaping out of my seat involuntarily to cheer. I had the time of my life!

Now, I can't help but wonder what else I've missed out on...and I'm wondering if I'm too old to become a Monster Truck Driver.

2012 -Life is Short, Grab it by the horns

2012-01-18T15:03:00.000-08:00

I'm sick of the "someday's" and the "maybe one day's". I don't want to hear them anymore, nor do I want to utter them again. I still want to dream and hope, believe me I'm a big dreamer, but I'm tired of waiting for the future. If there is one thing I've learned in 2011 is that "Life is Short", no more waiting around for fun.

Whenever I told my mom about my hopes and dreams she would always without fail say, "Go for it. Do it now!" I would always balk and say, "Uh Mom, I don't have the money or someone to watch the kids or the time." She would say, "Well there is that, but find a way." At the same time she always wanted to travel around the world, but my Dad liked to reside stateside. She always joked that after my dad passed away (he was 10 years her elder, so it was expected he would pass first) that she was going to buy a Mercedes and book a trip around the world the day after the funeral. "Don't judge me kids.. I'll be grieving... but my grieving will take place in Egypt."

When my mom was diagnosed in November of 2010 my brother and I said, "Alright mom, let's go to Paris, Egypt, Hong Kong, wherever." Her body was too broken and too tired to travel at that point and she was at peace. Traveling isn't everything and and in the end those trips didn't really matter. Being around those you love is what matters most and enjoying your life now at the present is what matters.

Unfortunately a fabulous trip to Europe isn't on the agenda for 2012, and that's okay. I've made my peace with it, and it doesn't look like Publisher's Clearing House will be dropping off a giant check at my door this year. And that's okay.

This year I resolve to say YES more often than No. I'm going to live a little louder, risk a little more, and take advantage of things that come my way.

Five years ago if I was called up to do something embarrassingly like riding a stick horse around a crowded restaurant, I would have smiled and done it with my shoulders hunched down and my face red. In 2009, I had a breakthrough and learned to step out of my tidy little box and have more fun. But last year in 2011, in the dark rooms of grief I felt like I had been life had beaten me to the ground. I can see myself lying on the floor of a boxing ring, just beaten down. My friends, my family, have picked me up, brushed me off, rehydrated me, and said, "Get back in there.. you can do this." I feel like when 2011 was coming to a close, I stood up, brushed myself off and grabbed my life by the horns and said, "This is MY life and I'm the Boss of Good Times around here."

So now when I'm handing a stick horse and a cowboy hat and told to prance around the restaurant, I grabbed that cowboy hat and galloped and Yee-Haw'd my little heart out. Look out world, I'm all in and ready to make this year memorable.

1st Annual Polar Bear Swim

2012-01-16T22:59:00.000-08:00

Zoey decided it was time to open the pool again. Never mind that the water was a frosty 58 degrees.

The kids decided to jump together, but AK tricked her brother at the last minute.

Then she gather her courage and jumped in too. She instantly burst into tears when she hit the water. "It's COLD!"

The kids jumped multiple times and were rewarded with hot showers and hot chocolate. I'm thinking this needs to be an annual event with friends and the hot tub fired up.

Saying Goodby to 2011

2012-01-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

There is no nostalgia for the ending of 2011, other than it is a year I do not want to relive. Truly, I am blessed with so many things, but this year was challenging in so many ways. Our family lost my mom and our beloved pets this year, and I underestimated the fallout from those events. There were a host of other annoying challenges, but the year is done and we can start a new in 2012. We sent 2011 off with a bang and spent the last week of the year with family.

Such as my awesome rock star brother, who is also an amazing cook. He is my rock and is so good to me. When I was sixteen I would lock myself in my bedroom to call him and rant about how crazy things were. He would always listen and calmly give advice. Here I am at the age of 34 and I last week I locked myself in the bathroom at my dad's house and called him to say, "This is crazy... how did we get here?" I love him, and his loyalty and love are one of the best things in my life. He has always been my "Big Brother" and to this day he introduces me as "My Baby Sister."

My brother is a lucky man, with an amazingly kind wife, and two adorable boys. I love my nephews so very much and I look forward to hanging out with them. My kids love them too, and we hit one of our favorite museums while they were in town.

After my brother and nephews left, Mr. Man's family arrived in town. His sister treated us all to Medieval Times. AK loved every minute of it, from watching the horses getting prepped, to the jousting. When she grows up she wants to be a jouster.

I have 400 pictures of Mr. Boy like this over the course of his lifetime. He watches things so intensely with his mouth open. He blocks everything out, especially my voice and gets into the story.

Sometimes I often wish for a big family, but then I'm reminded... I married into a big family. Mr. Man has oodles of cousins who we love and are close to. They are dear friends and my kids love their kids. We got together for an adult night with the cousins. We played Chat Roulette because we thought it would be so funny to have people come onto chat and see 10 people staring back at them. We thought it was funny...

Later, confessions were made that we shall never speak of again.

New Year's Eve was at our house, and I could not have been in a better mood. I was happy to close out 2011, and welcome the New Year with a kiss at midnight.

And the house was full of family and few friends until the wee hours of the morning. I love this house, it is so satisfying to have it full of people who are enjoying themselves by the firepit, playing video games, watching movies, playing Ping Dong, and chowing on good food.

New Years Day was over at Uncle Mike's House for the annual "Mini Rose Parade" where we watch the Rose Parade Floats line up. There were oodles of cousins and mini cousins to love on.

I still don't know how to convey to my children how special it is to see the Rose Parade floats in person, before the actual parade.

Dear 2012, Please be kind and gentle to us this year. Thank you, Madamoiselle

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-25T20:38:00.000-08:00

Of course I think my kids are amazing, and I'm biased, but how many kids do you know that sleep until 8:30AM on Christmas Morning. The kids slept in the same room on Christmas Eve, complete with their own tree and woke to a handful of small gifts under their tree. We heard them bouncing around and decided it was time to get this show on the road.

They have to stay in their room until we give the OK, I love seeing them so excited.

Baby Roller Hand must have been on the good list, because she got a few gifts from Santa this year.

Mr.Boy has been talking about this crazy expensive Volcom Jacket for weeks. I told him I can't imagine ever dropping that kind of cash on a sweatshirt. What he didn't know was that I went to 6 different stores trying to hunt down the one he wanted in his size. He was ecstatic when he realized what it was.

He immediately wanted to show it off and hasn't taken it off since...except to wear his Leather Jacket. I swear this kid is going to break the bank with his clothing preferences. Although... ahem... I may have the same taste.

Last Year, ALL the cousins and ALL of AK's friends got an American Girl Doll for Christmas. All of them, every single one, or so AK told us. This year she asked Santa for American Girl Doll and a cup of her very own. I have never been more stressed dropping a Benjamin on a doll, knowing it would be one she would hopefully have forever. There are a crazy amount of options, and then for $12 more you can add this, or that, and next thing you know $100 turns into $500 worth of American Girl items and you can't figure out how that happened. I swear there must be brainwashing.

But all that anxiety disappears when you see her face when she realizes what she is opening. Plus factor in the fact how much she loves Baby Roller Hand, and how Baby Roller Hand has been part of our family, including family portraits for the past five years, you know that AK is going to love this doll. She has spent hours brushing "Madeline's" hair, and changing her outfits 100 times. It was a good gift for her.

I got surprised with an iPhone which I have been drooling over for the last few months after my phone tanked. I am in love with my new toy and Siri is my new best friend.

AK made out like a bandit and seems a little shocked at her giant stack of gifts. Seriously, ever Christmas I say, "Ok, we are going to scale it back this year," and every year we don't.

Mr. Boy got everything on his list too, plus some.

After the gifts were opened and played with, we were off to our Sunday Service. I couldn't resist wearing my outfit made by Aunt D. I love it and I can guarantee I was the most festively dressed person in attendance that day!

I think I'm totally going to bring the fur trimmed skirt back. Hang on let me dial up Vogue see if I can get them on board.

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-25T16:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve is my favorite. The anticipation makes me giddy. In the midst of all my festiveness, I had grown a bit behind on my Holiday To Do Lists. A batch of Christmas Cards would have to be New Years Cards and on Christmas Eve morning I found myself at Costco picking up the last of the goods for the next few days of entertaining. While I felt like a last minute loser, I made myself useful by picking up items the neighbors needed for their festivities.

Once the food was handled, we could focus on family and fun. Mr. Man & Mr. Boy played "Ping Dong*" in Mr. Man's new Garage-Mahal. The Garage-Mahal was a byproduct of the big Cleanout of 2011, and now he has lots of space for manly things.

*Mr. Boy constantly mispronounces or makes up words, and I love it. Fortune Cookies = Future Cookies, Moonhole = Moon Roof, Wonder Woven = Wonder Woman, Ping Dong = Ping Pong

Mr. Uncle arrived in time to join for afternoon cocktails of "Christmas Soda".

Soon the mini cousins arrived. (Mini cousins are Mr. Man's Cousin's kids) Cookies were made for Santa, including a Darth Vader and a Yoda. AK knows Santa is a big Star Wars Fan.

We caroled in costume to the neighbors, who loved it!

The best part of the evening was the outfits. When I was at White Christmas with the Extended Family, I joked that during the Finale, I expected everyone to come to Christmas Eve Dinner at my house dressed just like the dancers in the finale. Big Red Fur Trimmed Skirts, muffs, and Santa Hats. Ross's Aunt D, who is someone I aspire to be like, took the idea and ran with it.

Her family showed up in costume and brought outfits for everyone in attendance. It made my Christmas! I couldn't believe she did that. I had been joking, but we did look mighty festive in our muffs and fur trimmed skirts. I LOVED IT! We even dressed Zoey up!

Luke 2 was read and acted out by the children....

Santa was tracked by Uncle Mike, thanks to NORAD.

After lots of laughter and good food, our guests went home and it was time to put our kids to bed. I love our annual picture in Christmas Jammies by the tree. The kids are always so excited that they wrestle each other instead of posing. I love that their is a puppy in the middle of the brawl, it just is such a snapshot into our life right now.

Then... All is calm, All is Bright.

December: Leading up to Christmas

2011-12-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

I love Mr. Man, I do, he is loyal, dedicated, a great father, motivated, and the man does not know how to relax. He started his "vacation" with a bang and a plan, "Let's clean out the house!"

I kept protesting, "Pourquoi? Mr. Man, it's Christmas! I still have gifts to buy, to wrap, and baking to do." Mr. Man assured me it would all get done and he was right, even though I threw several tantrums along the way. We worked as a team and everything came together for the most part.

The kids decorated Gingerbread houses while Mr. Man & I purged the closets.

They turned out great, and the best thing I did this year was buy the ones that are pre-assembled, I'll have to remember that for next year.

Mr. Boys looks a bit like it's frowning, but no worries it's actually a door with two upstairs windows.

We took one day off and ventured to Universal Studios for the day! It's just a stone's throw away from our house and we ended up getting passes for the year.

So very fun, and a fun break from cleaning out closets.

My favorite was that they had an actual Kwik E Mart from The Simpsons. While the studio tour had some fun features, but it wasn't nearly as fun as hanging out with Mr. Man on the Warner Bros lot. Even Mr. Boy said, "What we can't go into the soundstages? Daddy.. tell them it's okay!" I don't think Mr. Boy knows that not everyone has a dad who works in the Entertainment Biz.

One of the nights, Mr. Man arranged for a night out for me to see the musical, "White Christmas" with Mr. Mans extended family and cousins. Ms. Cousin and I shared lots of laughs during the evening.

One day Mr. Man and I split up the kids and went on our own "dates". AK and I headed over to Nordstroms for lunch and some shopping. We were on the hunt for the holy grail of all gifts for Mr. Boy and were coming up empty handed, yikes!

We attended my company Christmas Party, which I love because it is a family affair. The kids love it because they get all the root beer they want plus gifts.

Mr. Boy was hiding out under the table anxiously awaiting his gift.

We ended the day with a marathon Merry Go Round session on this fabulous Merry Go Round that has Reindeer and Sleighs.

The house was cleaned out and tidy, the holiday activities complete, the Christmas Cards were mostly out, gifts were purchased, and it was the evening of December 23rd. Phew! We had packed in the festivities!

December: The Third Week

2011-12-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

We hosted our 5th Annual Cookie Decorating Party. (Is it really the 5th, if the 4th got rained out?) Mr. Boy wore his scout uniform, not because he had scouts that day, but because he LOVES Scouts.

We learned a valuable lesson the first year, NEVER host the cookie party indoors. You will still be vacumming sprinkles around the 4th of July. Trust me.

This is one of my favorite gatherings during the holidays. Lots of Sugar, Lots of Kids...

And Lots of Cookies that look like this. I swear there is a cookie underneath all those sprinkles.

There are also lots of cute faces stuffing themselves on cookies, candy, and cupcakes.

The last day of school for the year was Pajama Day, I loved that Mr. Boy was brave enough to wear these jammies to school. It was easy to spot him on the playground at lunch.

That night was AK's "Nutcracker in a Nutshell" performance where she performed "Waltz of the Flowers".

The next day, myself and some friends went to Disneyland for the day, but Disneyland was "Closed" that day, in spite of the fact that two of us checked our calendars. Closed as in, a blackout day for annual passholders. Have you ever sat 8 children down and said, "Yes, I know we are sitting here at the gates of Disneyland and people are going in, but we can't go today." Of course, just as we break the news, the monorail whizzes by. filled with happy kids and parents who don't have passes with blackout dates. We tried to make the best of the day and went to the beach for lunch and to play. I love this playground on the beach, it's one of my favorite spots in the nation.

Later, we rode the Ferry over to Balboa Island.

Our family attended the Church Christmas Party in full Bethlehem attire, with the exception of Mr. Boy who was a Roman Soldier commanding people to be taxed. I looked more like a nun than an ancient traveler. Mr. Man was a Jedi Sheppard, who watched over his flock wearing Star Wars sheets, and hauled around LuLu the Rocking Sheep.

Guess who had the staring role as "The Baby Jesus" in our church's Living Nativity, Baby Roller Hand! AK was so proud of her baby in a manger, and would visit her in the stable and whisper, "It's okay Roller Hand, shhhh, just remember to stay swaddled, and no crying!"

And thus begun Mr. Man's two week vacation from work...

More than I can chew

2011-12-22T23:29:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure where I went wrong, but somehow I got way behind on Christmas. My kitchen table looks like this, and I'm in way over my head. Throw in a car accident, strep throat, and one husband who doesn't know how to relax while on "vacation" and we are in the middle of crazy chaos. Anyone have a few more hours they can spare?

December 2011: The Second Week

2011-12-15T21:53:00.000-08:00

Mr. Man and I enjoyed a shared work at home day, which is rare for us. He and I held hands and stared adoringly at each other while we worked. Maybe that's an exaggeration, but we did chat and enjoy our time together. Even better, we got the Christmas List hammered out and gifts ordered! PS His new look, makes him look like a zombie.

While not super festive, it was fun and a change from my normal routine. The good folks at GoGoSqueez, my very favorite snack food, sent over a researcher to document the "A Day in the Life of a GoGoSqueez Mom". I love their product, and I've declared my love previously. I'm so tired of feeling like I'm losing the "good food" battle, and GoGoSqueez is my secret weapon in making sure my kids are eating well.

Charlie (Mr. Research Man) got a peek in Chalet Life, and spent ample time in my filthy mom-mobile shuttling kids around. AK was deep into Nutcracker Practice and that night I hosted a small gathering for some people I volunteer with.

Zoey, after getting fixed, and her last round of vaccinations as an early Christmas Present, got to finally go out the back gate to explore the "Back 40". She and Rupert had quite the standoff for their first meeting until Rupert took a good sniff of her rear end and declared to the heard, "It's okay, she's one of those domesticated things!

I attended the annual Holiday Handmade Party again this year. Last year I made fancy tea towels, that were not a hit. This year I bought an old frame from a thrift store, painted it white, and made it into a magnetic chalkboard. This year I hit a homerun, and it was hit!!

Mr. Man and I attended his swanky company party. I ended up changing my outfit at the last minute, and ditched the giant flower and the white jacket for something a bit more black. I naturally stuck my foot in my mouth when I implied someone was old who was only 26. Mr. Man is good to put up with me.

AK & I went to see the "Real" Nutcracker and loved every minute of it. She was in awe of the dancers and the costumes and can't wait to grow up to be a ballerina. While we were waiting to go to the performance, we wrote our letters to Santa AK asked for an American Girl Doll, Monster High Girls, and her very own cup. She always throws something in her letter that is odd, but sweet. Last year it was Scotch Tape.

Mr.Boy had 100 items on his list, but in the end narrowed it down to three. A skateboard, a leather jacket, and a ridiculously expensive Volcom Hoodie. The kid has expensive taste just like his mama.

The next day I prepped for our annual Holiday Cookie Party. While out grabbing the last minute items, I got into a car accident, when someone decided to change lanes and hit my car. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but it is a pain in the rear, especially during the Christmas Holiday when you have 10,000 things to do. I spent my evening baking away my frustration in the form of sugar cookies.

December: The First Week

2011-12-14T10:48:00.000-08:00

Last year, I chronicled our Daily Christmas Activities daily.. It was too time consuming so this year I'm trying to summarize by week. Each day we try to do something festive for the holidays, and it has been something the kids look forward to each day.

Dec. 1 - Decorate the Tree

and unpack Christmas Books.

Dec. 2 - Unpack and Wash Christmas Jammies so they are toasty from the dryer by bedtime.

They have insisted on sleeping in Santa Hats this month.

Dec. 3 - Mr. Man puts up the Christmas Lights.

Zoey helps.

Squirrel!

Dec. 4 - Elf Dinner After watching the movie Elf, we were inspired by the scene where Buddy the Elf makes spaghetti for breakfast, topping it with maple syrup, candy, and pop tarts. The kids wanted to make "Elf's Spaghetti" so we had it for dinner.

Mr. Man couldn't even watch, he was gagging the whole time.

They LOVED it! But could only handle about five bites of it!

Dec. 5 - Mr. Man and I have a teeny tiny little side business during the holidays. It's a fun project to work on together, and Mr. Man is a great business partner. We talk while we package up stuff to ship out, it's not as glamorous as a date, but it works.

Dec. 6 - My Dad makes his weekly Tuesday visit, and AK ends up falling asleep with him on the couch while they were talking. That night I went out to celebrate my friend EllJayJay's birthday and ate Alligator for the first time. It's true, it really does "taste like chicken". Last year I shared a heartwarming story about how EllJayJay and I became friends. Read it! But fair warning it will make you cry!

Dec. 7 - We attend Miss AK's Kindergarten performance of "The GingerBread Man" She is a smash hit as she plays the part of Mrs. Baker.

Later that day, I got a phone call that Mr. Boy got punched several times by a boy in his class. As I drove to the school, I felt like a Mama Bear, ready to growl and attack those who try to harm my cub. It reminded me of my mom as she was the Ultimate Mama Bear.

My other favorite things: Ya Ya's

2011-12-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

I just got back from spending a few days at the beach with some of my favorite people. My girlfriends, aka "The Ya Ya's." We met 13 years ago and bonded during book club (first book: Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood), and became fast friends. These ladies know me better than myself, and they are my biggest cheerleaders. We all lived within a few blocks of each other, and had the best time together. We have had babies together, we have laughed and cried and comforted each other. There is a bond between these ladies unlike anything else and when we are together it feels like we haven't been apart. We all live apart now, and when we get together it is always a good time. We hardly sleep, because we can't stand wasting our time together snoozing. I can't speak for all of them, but when times are challenging, Mr. Man encourages me to consult the Ya Ya's, because they are wise and comforting.

On Friday Night, we hit Joe's Crab Shack for some Buckets of Crab. Our waitress approached us at the end of our meal, and said, "Oh! I hear we are celebrating a birthday!!" I smile and look around at my friends who are beaming at me and wonder, "Oh who has a birthday next? Wait... no one does.. uh oh.. oh no!" My birthday is coming up and the Ya Ya's knew this place dressed you up and made you dance and Yee Haw your way around the restaurant on your birthday. It was a prime opportunity to laugh it up.

We made good memories, lounged around, and laughed so much our sides ached. I left the weekend better than when I arrived, and that's exactly how a girls weekend should be.

Why is it that when you are going on away for a few days, it is so much work to get things ready? Is this a mom thing? It was totally worth it, but the phenomenon baffles me.

And we have a winner for the final Faux-Prah giveaway!

Not a pic of our winner, but an honest to goodness still from a real Oprah's Favorite Things Giveaway Audience.

Amy from Almost Normal who is pulling the same trick I did almost two years ago and moving right after Christmas. Oh man, I feel for her! Amy email me at Qwendykay at Yahoo.com and I will send your stuff out to you so that you can unpack it, admire it, and then pack it up into a box again!

Beginnings and Endings

2011-11-30T11:40:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow marks the first day of Advent in our house. The beginning of 25 days worth of "Festive Activities" and I can't wait. Last year we had so much fun, and I documented each day. Last year it rained and rained, and I was dividing my time to be with my mom and being a mom. This year I feel more on top of things overall, and I'm looking forward to spending time with family and friends.

The Christmas Jammies have been unpacked and laundered. Since they are on sale, I went ahead and ordered the next size up for the kids. My kids LOVE these jammies and claim they are as "soft as kittens!"

I just ordered Personalized Pencils for the kids stockings, since cool pencils are all the rage at school, I'm hoping these will be appreciated.

Folks, I think we have our first Christmas Miracle! I ordered our Christmas Cards before Thanksgiving! The last few years I have been cutting it close with the Christmas Cards and this year I vowed, "As Blog as my witness... I will get them out early" I saved copies of my favorite pics throughout the year in a special folder just so I could easily pick the pictures for our annual collage.

Today is the final day for the "Faux-Prah's Favorite Things Giveaway" Your odds of winning are really good, way better than the lottery so go forth and enter! Don't forget to enter on Quite Contrary Mary's Blog too and while your there stop and appreciate her gorgeous grey walls. Mr. Man and I are in the midst of picking a grey for our living room, because truly... Mary and I have the same brain.

Wishful Thinking

2011-11-28T11:03:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the last few days of the Faux-prah's Favorite Things Giveaway I am posting what I would giveaway if I were a rich man.

I have lusted after this La Cornue CornuFé Stove in Provence Blue for years. I don't know if I would actually have the guts to buy it in Powder Blue, I tend to get nervous about committing to a color for a big purchase. I love this stove so much, I imagine myself stirring something on the stove while speaking to my perfectly behaved children in fluent French. One day I will have this stove and I will make amazing meals for everyone on it.

Laser Hair Removal Treatments are not something everyone talks about, but it is a gift I gave myself.this year and it is fabulous! At the end of my treatment I am hoping to throw away my razors.

If I could, I would give everyone a Beach House. I know I've mentioned before how Santa Barbara

is home for me. I dream of having a vacation home there and spending our Super Ultimate Mega Summers there.

The last item on my list is a Classic Porsche 356 Speedster. I want one of these so bad, and I know I would look fabulous driving around town in one. You know what, you would look fabulous in it as well. My neighbor had one when I was growing up in Candy Apple Red and I have fond memories of going for rides in it with my hair blowing in the wind. I would trade my mom-mobile in for this in a heartbeat.

If I could giveaway these items, I would, but alas I can not. However, you can enter my Faux-Prah's Favorite Things Giveaway and win a gift card to Nordstroms. The giveaway has been extended until Wednesday due to the Holiday Weekend. Don't forget to enter Quite Contrary Mary's giveaway to win her favorite things. What is one item you would give away if money was no object?

Grateful for the Extras

2011-11-23T22:26:00.000-08:00

It's Thanksgiving time, my mom's favorite time of year. I miss her and little reminders of her are everywhere. My heart aches as I see moms and daughters at the grocery store picking up last minute items for the Thanksgiving feast. Even through the tears and the grief, I am filled with gratitude and finding myself pausing during the day to give thanks for the things I have.

Yesterday, I had three extra kids for the day spanning ages 3-8. I forgot what simple tenderness there is in holding onto a little hand for safety. While I played taxi for our budding Ballerina, Mr. Man held down the fort. I came home to a busy house, with two kids reading under the big old pine tree, 1 kid helping Mr. Man dig a hole, and another playing Barbies inside. We always thought we would have four kids, but life just hasn't worked out that way, and maybe this is how it is supposed to be, just our two kids and a whole lot of room for "extras". Thank you for the "extras" that joined us yesterday and for the extra laughter that I heard during their stay.

Later, the hillside beckoned, we had a picnic, read some more, and built a "coyote trap" out of sticks. Thank you Mr. Man for working hard to provide for us this amazing house. Thank you beloved "Chalet" for the adventures you provide daily to us.

The kids ran races and Zoey joined in. I begin to wonder if she thinks she is a child and not merely just a dog. Her tail wagged nonstop and she dutifully found more sticks for the coyote trap. Thank you for the dogs who have graced our life both old and young.

Later that night, spaghetti was made, some with sauce, some with butter, some with cheese. I looked around our full table and gave thanks. Thank you for the extras who fill our table and our hearts.

Faux-Prah's Favorite Things Giveaway Part Deux

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

It's time for another round of my FAVORIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITE things! I had the toughest time coming up with the second list. I couldn't quite narrow it down and when I would ask Mr. Man his opinion he would say, "No, you can't give everyone a deer and a crew of Juans." Lame, he is such a Debbie Downer. This week, I'll be posting things that I wish I could give, it's full of some gorgeous eye candy and beauties.

For this week, Quite Contrary Mary and I are doing a simultaneous giveaway, which means you could win either one, or even both if you are super lucky. The first item on the list is my favorite book of all time, The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck. It is one of those books where you don't want the book to end, because you don't want to say goodbye to the characters.

I love my insulated cups so much, it's become my latest accessory. I always have one in my hand.

It reminds me of Mary-Louise Parker in Weeds who always had an Iced Coffee in her hands.

This next product has REVOLUTIONIZED how I do laundry. Seriously, I cannot rave about this product enough. Laundry has always been problematic in our house. I used to do it all on Saturday, and then spend my wild Saturday nights folding laundry. Then we added sports and our Saturdays became crazy. Then we were living out of stuff that needed to be folded and my "reading chair" in my bedroom became the "family dresser" or more like a mountain of clean laundry. Then I discovered Shout Color Catcher and my whole laundry process changed. Shout Color Catchers absorbs loose dyes so your colors don't bleed on to other clothes. So long to separating all the clothes and then sorting and folding. Now, I take Mr. Boys dirty hamper and toss it in the washer with the Shout Color Catcher and detergent. When they are all done, I put them in a basket on Mr. Boys bed and he folds and puts away his clothes. There is no co-mingling of clothes and everyone's clothes get their own loads. It is genius and I love it. I used to worry about all of AK's pink bleeding out onto her white ballet clothes, but they all come out sparkling clean and their original color.

Do you know how much I love Nordstrom's? Oh how I love them. It's my favorite place to indulge in a little me time. I love their customer service and the fact that they don't decorate for Christmas until the day after Thanksgiving. I love that their personal shopping service is free and they will work with any budget. I used to be embarrassed when I went in and said, "Look, I don't have a lot of cash." The lady helping me said, "Babe... do you think I'm living like Donald Trump? I totally understand where you are coming from." Their shoe department is amazing and if I had millions, I'd buy one of every pair of shoes they had. For you, I'm giving away a $25 gift card to help nudge you into buying something special for yourself. You deserve it!

To enter the contest, all you have to do is leave a comment in the post below. You can tell me your favorite things, your favorite place to shop, or just say, "Winning looks good on me".

To receive an additional entry, you can share this giveaway on Facebook, just leave me a comment below that says you shared it on Facebook.

If you want one more way to enter, you can become one of my chosen people and become a follower. Just click "Join This Site" under the followers on the left. Don't forget to leave me a comment letting me know you have become a follower.

You have until Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at 11:59pm. Winner will be picked via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond. Winner will be announced Wednesday, November 30th, 2011. Don't forget to enter Quite Contrary Mary's Giveaway and share some Hot Chocolate with me. Mint Hot Chocolate is my best friend on chilly mornings.

*Disclaimer: I recieved zero compensation for this post and zero donations of the items featured on this giveaway. However, Nordstroms if you would love to compensate me, I would love to be paid in Frye Boots.*

Dear Fox News,

2011-11-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Fox News,

I think it's great that I finally found someone who is excited by the deer as much as I am. People tend to call me, "The crazy deer lady" and it gets a bit lonely when you are the only one who is passionate about something. I also think it's great that you love my house and the "back 40". Isn't amazing to have this oasis in Los Angeles? It's so serene and pretty. I know, I think I'm really lucky too.

Here's the thing, maybe next time you want to come and do a "live shot" of the hillside and deer ambling by, maybe you can leave your helicopter at home? At least once a week, I am awoken to what sounds like a Helicopter landing on top of my house. I'm not really a morning person, and so when I stumble out to let the puppy out, I don't really like feeling like I'm walking into a hurricane. The puppy can't really focus on "doing her business" when she is terrified she is going to fly away, can you blame her?

It makes everyone grouchy, because it's a house of non-morning people. I'm sorry that I always give you obscene gestures, it's just not my favorite way to start the day. Plus, as Rupert's manager isn't he entitled to some Royalties from using him as your live shot for the weather? Have your people call Rupert's people and I'm sure we can work something out.

Sincerely,

The Mademoiselle of the Chalet

aka Rupert's Management

PS It's the last day to enter Quite Contrary Mary's Faux-Prah's Favorite things giveaway. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is one of my very favorite books and she is giving it away. Yesterday, Mr. Boy and I hit our favorite store for some goodies for next week's giveaway. I can't wait!

Home

2011-11-16T11:31:00.000-08:00

I have needed to go to Ikea for 3 weeks now, and every morning I wake up and say, "Today I will go to Ikea and get that one solitary part for AK's curtain rod." I've been avoiding it, because I'd rather stay home.

This little bird decided to join me in my homebody status by flying into my kitchen a few weeks ago.

I do leave my house, but not voluntarily... it's for soccer, ballet, scouts, groceries. Becoming a homebody has been a new experience for me. Even Mr. Man is baffled, he has always thought of me as a bit of a shopaholic. The truth is... I love being home. When the kids are at school, I'd rather sit at my desk, look out at the hillsides and write rather than shop. There is a contentment I feel in my house, that I have never felt before. During this month of giving thanks, I'm giving thanks for not just a house... but a beautiful home.

P.S. Have you entered Quite Contrary Mary's giveaway yet? I am also a big fan of A Tree Grows In Brooklyn and Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil is seriously our go to product in this house, just like Windex was in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding"

First Faux-Prah Winner and How I celebrated 11/11/11 at 11:11pm

2011-11-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

Mr. Man has a large extended family and has approximately 4,012 first cousins. I have exactly two cousins, yes two. The last time I saw my cousins, I was 12, so I wouldn't say that we are close. At first Mr. Man's large extended family was overwhelming, but I have embraced them. I love them, and now many of them are married and have kids of their own. We call the cousin's offspring "Mini-cousins" and my kids love having family gatherings with them. On the Occasion of 11/11/11, we got a few of the cousins together to celebrate.

We laughed and talked, and mocked my "$6.99 hairs cut". I think my new years resolution will be no more cheapie hair cuts, but you know that moment when you just can't stand your hair anymore and you get desperate?

Evening Highlights: with the cousins: Playing Twister for Kinect (cheesy game but we laughed a lot), Posing for a picture at 11:11pm, and making fools of ourselves doing the Digg and Torch playing Dance Central.

See how much fun Mr. Man is having, it's actually his new "look". Earlier this year he tried sporting a beard and a toothy grin, now he is going for more of a freaky stare. Here is a pic from Halloween... spooky, I don't love it.

Also, who wants to be the very first Faux-Prah giveaway winner!!!

KRCrafts from I made this myself! Congratulations, you and Mr. 7 Hands will be so very happy together, I just know it. I hope you don't faint from excitement upon reading this. KRCrafts - shoot me an email at qwendykay at yahoo.com to retrieve your Faux-Prah's Favorite Things Gifts.

For all of those who didn't win, don't despair. All this week my favorite faux sister Quite Contrary Mary will be giving away her favorite things. Then the following week, we will both be hosting giveaways!! Tis the season of giving here on our blogs.

5 Things I know for sure.

2011-11-11T13:38:00.000-08:00

In keeping with the Faux-Prah Theme of our Giveaway, I would like to address the "Things I Know For Sure"

1. I know that going to a cheap haircut place is just like playing the lottery. Chances are you will come out a loser and not love your haircut, but every once in a while you get a decent haircut. It is that hope combined with an innate frugality, and the desperation of needing a haircut this very minute that will keep you trying to find the holy grail. Last week, I took a gamble on a place that had a sign in the window, "$6.99 Hairs cut". Yes, I am quoting. Wanna guess whether I was a winner or a loser?

2. I know that shoes make me happy and that people think happiness should come from within. It's one area of my life, I'm happy to go against the grain.

3. I know that cancer is a thief and robs people of their loved ones. I can not wait for the day when a cure for cancer is found.

4. My talents are not: singing, cleaning, Photoshop, and being a super awesome responsible PTA mom. I think the great part of being in your 30's, is that you finally make peace with the areas you aren't talented at. While I might not be the Super Awesome Responsible PTA mom, I am a fun mom, and when my kids are grown, I will be able to look them in the eye and say, I tried my best.

5. I know that puppies are hard to photograph when they aren't asleep. I also know for sure that puppies are super cute.

What is one thing you know for sure?

Today is the last day of the first Faux-prah's Favorite Things Giveaway. Enter by clicking here! Next week, my favorite Faux Sister Quite Contrary Mary will be doing a giveaway with life changing products. You will not want to miss it!

Give oh Give Away

2011-11-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about the Faux-Prah Favorite Things Giveaway and I'm excited you are entering! If I could, I would give everyone a Mr. 7 Hands. (Did you know I just imagined myself standing on a stage screaming, "You get a Mr. 7 Hands! You get a Mr. 7 Hands! EVERYONNNNNNNNNNNNNE gets a Mr. 7 Haaaaaaaaaaaaaands!" Just like Oprah. Seriously Oprah, I'm glad you are a quitter, now is my time in the spotlight.)
For your enjoyment, here is the SNL version of Oprah's Favorite Things audience. I laugh until I cry every single time I watch it.

You have a few more days to enter! Just leave a comment on my giveaway post by clicking here.

Faux -Prah's Favorite Things Giveaway

2011-11-07T11:16:00.000-08:00

Every November I have a ritual to help set the tone for the holiday season. I sit and watch Oprah's Favorite Things show where I scream, shriek, and cry right along with the audience. Then after the show is over, I call one of my best friends and we dish and swoon over the best items on the show. She can't stand the show, hates it, loathes it, but can't stay away from watching it.

Moi: O.M.G. Did you see that fridge? I hadn't ever thought to have a fridge with a computer on it!
BFF: I know... I swear I saw someone faint when she unveiled it.
Moi: Garrett's Popcorn... I've never tried it, have you? How have we lived and not eaten Garrett's Popcorn?
BFF: Ugh, $8,000 for a tub of caramel corn... I swear I saw someone faint when they got their big old tin. Of course, their greedy paws were still clutching their popcorn as the collapsed right there on National Television.
Moi: I'm not sure I can fathom buying $90 soaps, in the shape of a swan, but Oprah swears they keep her skin glowing.
BFF: I KNOW! Some lady fainted after she took a whiff of the swan soap. I swear Oprah drugs the audience.
Moi: I can't stand it, I need some Oprah Uggs and those fat cupcakes.
BFF: DON'T BUY THEM, You will come down with the fainting disease that the audience has.

Now that Oprah is off the air... what am I going to do to get into the holiday spirit? I'll tell you what I'm going to do, it's time for me take over and build my own empire! I've secretly always wanted to be Oprah and giveaway my favorite things. Thanks to the World Wide Interwebs I can now be Faux-Prah.

Introducing the Bon Jour, Qwendykay And Quite Contrary Mary Faux-Prah's Favorite Things!

(Please tell me you imagined that in your best Oprah voice)

All this month you can win our favorite things. In case you don't know, Mary is my very favorite Faux Sister and we share the same brain. We met years ago and found that we shared way too many freaky common interests, including a passion for the color blue, shoes, and an unnatural love of blogging. Here is the freakiest part, both our mothers have the same obscure name and the same quirky traits, which can only mean... we share the same mother, hence we are sisters. You follow?

Introducing three of my Favorite THINGS!

Mr. 7 Hands

I swear, this is one of those revolutionary tools that will reside in your kitchen drawer, and you will wonder how you lived without it. Mr. Man and I fight over this tool, because he likes it in the garage, and I like it in the house. It has 7 different screwdriver heads and is the perfect tool for house projects or changing the batteries in the kids most obnoxious toy. This is my favorite gift to give to people, and while they aren't that enthused on opening it, they always come to me a few weeks later and say, "Mr. 7 Hands is GENIUS, Genuis I tell you."

Nexcare Bandaids

Bandaids? I know... but unfortunately, I don't have Oprah's fat wallet. Seriously, these are the world's best bandaids. They stick like nothing else, stay on forever, and help things heal up. Poor Mr. Boy has Eczema and itches his legs until they bleed. They are waterproof and create a "seal" around the cut. LOVE them.

$25 Amazon Gift Card

Oh how I love Amazon.com. My Prime membership has given me the freedom to become a serious homebody. I haven't visited Costco in months, since I order most of the non-perishables from Amazon, and who doesn't love the smiley faced boxes. I order everything under the sun from there. Last week I ordered two "paint your own mugs" for the soccer coaches, Ballet Tights for AK, and a foam wreath for an upcoming project without having to leave my house. With $25, you'll get free shipping on your purchase... maybe you can buy my some of my other favorites, which may or may not be featured on my other giveaway.

Such as GoGoSqueez applesauce, which has helped immensely in the lunchtime battle of eating healthy. Or maybe you can buy another Mr. 7 Hands for your loved one. The possibilities are endless.

To enter the contest, all you have to do is leave a comment in the post below. You can tell me your favorite things, tell me why you love me, or just say, "Winning!". To receive an additional entry, you can share this giveaway on Facebook, just leave me a comment below that says you shared it on Facebook.

You have until Friday, November 11, 2011 at 11:59pm. Winner will be picked via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond. Winner will be announced Monday, November 14th, 2011.

*Disclaimer: I recieved zero compensation for this post and zero donations of the items featured on this giveaway, hence the small retail value of the items.*

15 Things on my Bucket List

2011-11-04T15:25:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing I have learned this year it is that life is short. I've always hesitated to create a bucket list, because I love list, but I can't relax until my list is complete.

However, I'm a fan of the folks at JustAsk, who created the Gene Testing for Breast and Ovarian Cancer, and when they came up with their Bucket List contest, I knew I had to do this. Plus, just 15 things on my bucket list, that's easy enough. I think if I did my entire list it would 4,00 items long.

1. Paris - spend some time in Paris, eating, drinking, shopping, and lounging with Mr. Man

2. Go on an African safari.

3. Compete in a Triathlon

4. Learn to make mitre cuts in wood for moldings.

5. Go on the Ultimate Girls Weekend, I'm not sure the destination, but I think passports would be needed.

6. Get published.

7. Take my kids on an International Trip (They keep asking for Christmas in Tokoyo!)

8. Learn to Ski, or attempt to try it one more time.

9. Learn to bake really good cinnamon rolls.

10. Run a half marathon every five years until I'm 80.

11. Host a fancy dinner to thank my friends for being so awesome in the hills behind my house.

12. Own a diamond necklace worthy of passing down to AK

13. Teach my children to love traveling.

14. Shop on Rodeo Drive

15. Paris - with my children

So tell me, what are 3 things on your bucket list?

This is my entry in the Just Ask Bucket List Getaway Giveaway. Just Ask offers a breast and ovarian cancer screening and is encouraging people to share 15 things that I want to enjoy in my lifetime as a reminder to be aware of my health. Want to enter? Head over to TodaysMama.com to get the details.

21st Century Digital Boy

2011-11-02T21:54:00.000-07:00

Do you know what I love most about the 21st century?

I love that on any given 21st Century evening, you can be talking to your favorite 8 year old about his favorite topic: Mummies. Specifically King Tutankhamun and when you get stumped, you can just face time your favorite Egyptologist from the comfort of your own home, while wearing footie Pajamas, and making your Bionicles wrestle. That is exactly what we did tonight, and I learned in the process, that my mother, just like me, makes up a bunch of stuff when she doesn't know the answer to kids incessant questions.

Apparently, Howard Carter, the man who discovered King Tut's tomb did not die a tragic death when a piano fell on him, nor did King Tut have hydrocephalus. I'm beginning to wonder what else I was taught that was purely fiction. I guess, like mother, like daughter.

Left my Heart in San Francisco

2011-11-01T22:13:00.000-07:00

During our glorious Super Mega Ultimate Summer, we took a road trip to visit my brother and his family in San Francisco. My kids are great travelers, all they need is The Three Stooges on the DVD player. They giggled and laughed for six hours.

While there, we hit Stinson Beach. My kids were in heaven...

my kids were awed by the idea that this beach has shark infested waters.

They loved playing frisbee with my brother, who I love and adore, even if he calls me "Twinkiehead"

AK got a mini surf lesson, and she loved it.

Nate found some Jellyfish that didn't sting.

And AK fell in love with boogie boarding.

We also drove down Lombard street like all the tourist do, but Miss AK rolled down her window and asked, "Pardon me, but do you have any Grey Poupon?" to all the tourists. We laughed and laughed, it was hilarious, that joke NEVER gets old.

We visited China Town

And we visited a fortune cookie factory that was a total tourist trap. AK got a double fortune in her cookie, which apparently means double the good luck. Mr. Boy calls them "Future cookies" and it makes me giggle every time.

Mr. Boy and AK love being in San Francisco, and so do I. My brother is so good to me, and I love spending time with his cute little family.

I'm craving the lazy days of the Super Ultimate Summer... anyone else?

Happy Hallloween

2011-10-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

Presenting Harry Potter,

Madeline,

And the Dog that saved Madeline, Genevieve

Mr Boy has wanted to be Harry Potter since November 1st of last year, and AK wanted to be Wonder Woman. I ordered AK's costume and we loved it, but then one evening while we were reading in bed, she blurted out, "Oooo I wish I was Madeline for Halloween!" Immediately, I broke my rule of "once the costumes is purchased, you have to commit!" She can be Wonder Woman any day, but how cute is AK as Madeline?

While making their costumes this year, I fell back in love with sewing, inspired by this season of Project Runway. As for Zoey, it seemed appropriate to have her be the dog who saved Madeline, because she is dog who has totally saved this family with her sweet and goofy puppy love.

Click here to see previous Halloweens (complete with matching dogs). I know, I know... we are "those people" who dress up their pets.

Feeling Groovy

2011-10-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

It's only taken 2 and a half months of whining and complaining for me to feel like I hit my school groove. The schedule has got it's kinks worked out, and my whole attitude is better. Part of it is that I forgot to schedule in some downtime. So for a half hour each day, we are all lounging on my bed reading magazines, catalogs, or books. It's my favorite time of the day.

My kids LOVE to look at catalogs, and I remember anticipating the Sears catalog when I was little to look at all the fun things to buy. My kids rip out the pages they love and put their initial next to what they want. I don't know if you can see it, but AK put her initial next to that painted horse. It made me laugh when she handed me a stack of winter clothes pages she wanted to buy. Yes, AK the horse would make a great accessory with that skirt.

I rewarded my "positive attitude" self with a girl's night out at Drag Queen Bingo with Cinnamon and the ladies.

I love when I go to download pictures and I find gems like this, a self portrait.

Now that I hit my stride, of course, soccer ends in two weeks and we move onto a whole new schedule. Gah, it never ends.

Dissappointingly Pink

2011-10-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

AK has wanted a pink room forever and a day. One day my brother's wife looked me squarely in the eye and said, "Look, as the aunt, I'm laying down the law, she wants a pink room, so give her a pink room." I've learned over the years, you don't mess with the aunts or the aunties. Plus AK's room has been a disaster since she moved in last year. It was formerly the office aka Chalet Construction Headquarters, and is wired to launch a rocket. It needs a makeover, and it's in the works, just wait until you see the new bedding! Step one is paint.

Once I figured out the color I wanted, I went to town on AK's "long day" at school and dance. She had NO idea I was painting her room, and I thought it would be a fun surprise. Mr. Boy even pitched in.

Zoey tried to help, or more like made a mess. It seems like common sense to not paint around a puppy, but somehow I didn't think she would get into the paint. I was wrong, and do you know what happens when you scream and try to tackle a puppy covered in pink paint? They run, wiggle, and shake, splattering pink paint everywhere. The upside, now she matches AK's room!

Finally, it was done and we picked up AK. Mr. Boy and I couldn't wait to show her the finished project.

We told her we had a surprise for her and brought her into her room.... Ta Dah!

Uh oh! Why the frown? Apparently, kids consider surprises to be "toys", not necessarily paint. Good thing to know, looks like AK won't be on one of those Presto Chang-o HGTV shows, and that's okay. The next morning she woke up and saw her pink walls, and woke up with a smile. They made her happy, and that's all I wanted, even if it took a few hours to get there.

Forgive me, for yay, verily, I am about to covet.

2011-10-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

I'm hooked on Fridge Porn. No really, I am totally obsessed with this fridge commercial that comes on. No matter what we are watching on Tivo, I make Mr. Man slow down the remote and rewind for this one commercial of a gorgeous fridge with a built in tablet. I know it's silly, but I am not sure why I am so entranced by the idea of a fridge with a built in tablet. I love my iPad and I'm hooked on Google Calender, which updates my phone, ipad, computer, and the office of my daily activities. The iPad is never handy when I'm in the kitchen, and I'm ALWAYS in the kitchen. Sure, sure, I could just keep my phone or the iPad in the kitchen, but people that's not the point. I mean.. just take a peek at what I'm obsessed with. (If you are at work, fair warning here comes some naked fridge pictures, you might want to tilt the screen away from your coworker.)

Oh yeah baby, that's what I'm talking about. Now don't get my wrong, I love my $35 makeover fridge and it's freebie-ness. Recently, Freebie Fridge has been leaving an ominous puddle on the floor, that makes me wonder if Mr. Man and I are going to have to pony up for a new fridge. Mr. Man isn't a fan of my Tablet Fridge, he thinks the concept is cool, but the functionality isn't as great as it seems. (ahem *cough* Tablet Fridge is pricey* cough) We all know Mr. Man has a big heart, and loves to please his wife, so this is what he has done to remedy the situation.

Here's a close up of his genius-ness. He is convinced if we end up with a Tablet Fridge, Mr. Boy would suck down juice boxes all day long, while playing Angry Birds on the Fridge.

When I tried to convince him that the genius of the tablet fridge is the ability to be able to access my calendar in the room where I spend the most time... he came up with this.

It made me laugh, especially the pen, then came the ultimate solution...

Perfection!! This made me laugh so hard, that's my iPad taped to the fridge. I love Mr. Man, and I love that he does these things to humor me and my big ideas. However, I think there is room our marriage for Mr. Man and the Tablet Fridge, don't you?

Surviving Soccer

2011-10-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

Soccer Mom isn't a term I would use to describe me. I see those moms every week with their blinged out shirts announcing they are a "Sexy Soccer Mom" in rhinestones and glitter. I'm more of a "oh crap, we are late.. hurry!" soccer mom. Between all the practices, the scrimmages, and the games, I feel like I'm on the soccer field 10 days a week. It's crazy....

but I will say I had no clue how much I would enjoy watching my son play a sport he loves. I'm the crazy lady screaming from the sidelines when my boy blocks a goal. Mr. Boy is a natural goalie, even though he'd rather play forward. Mr. Boy made a deal with his coach that he'd play goalie for one half, if he could be forward the rest of the game. A deal the coach gladly accepted. Mr. Boy's nickname is "The Wall", because nothing gets through him.

It's crazy how serious he takes this stuff. I love that when he is out for a quarter, he sits and watches with his iPod on to "stay in the zone". Even though I gripe about how much time it takes, I love it and am envious of his natural athletic skill. When he blocks a goal, it's hard for me not to imagine him in 15 years playing in a huge stadium with 25,000 fans screaming, "The Wall!" or imagining him in the 2020 Olympics. Am I the only one who gets carried away?

Lessons from my Dad: Never pass up a good deal

2011-10-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

Junior High was not my favorite age. It was extra awkward, and I wasn't exactly Miss Popular.

During my eighth grade year, my father retired and stayed at home full time. Parents are already mortifying enough at that age, and now my dad had forty extra hours a week to embarrass me.

Somehow I ended up in Band during Jr. High, I didn't like it, and I was terrible at it. My brothers were in band in junior high and I think it was just one of those things we did in our family. Band didn't make me more popular... are you shocked? Even worse, since I was terrible at band, the band nerds shunned me. This video reminds me of my band talent... except I didn't have the jazzy dance steps or the sparkly outfit.

My dad decided to take up new hobbies all of which mortified me at some point during my eighth grade year, but perhaps the worst offense was becoming a bargain hunter. It's a noble and admirable hobby, but combine that with my dad's engineer brain to make all things more efficient, it would encroach on my life.

One day, my dad was scheduled to pick me up from school which was a special treat, since I rode the bus. My dad had just found the mother of all deals on Toilet Paper and had stocked up. Our Buick Skylark was loaded down with 24 packs of Charmin. The trunk was bursting, the backseat was packed, and the luggage rack was loaded up with TP. My dad pulls up in front of the school in his Toilet-Paper-Mobile with Dionne Warwick blasting from the stereo. My dad honks and waves madly at me, while I try to disappear into thin air.

(I tried to recreate the scene with my crazy awesome photoshop skills. This is the actual car from this harrowing experience. She later became my car when I turned 16, I preferred to drive her around town sans Toilet Paper.)

Everyone is staring and I start to climb into the front seat of the Buick, only to have my dad says, "Oh... no we have to pick up your brother you'll have to sit in the backseat." He opens the back door, pulls out giant packs of toilet paper, I get in, and then he proceeds to stack toilet paper on my lap. I am squished between a wall of toilet paper and the car window and as I look out the car window there is a sea of gaping mouths belonging to my peers. It is at that moment I knew popularity was forever going to be just out of my grasp.

Grateful for Puppy Love

2011-10-07T10:03:00.000-07:00

This little dog has me completely smitten.

Zoey is proving to be a sweet little addition to the family. I swear this dog smiles in her sleep. And do you know what is better than round toddler bellies? Deliciously plump and crazy soft puppy bellies.

Zoey often sleeps just like this.

In the car, Zoey is either on someones lap or up front with me.

If she is up front, she sits like this, with her nose sticking straight up to the ceiling. It makes me laugh each and every time.

Her favorite chew toy... door trim. The Juans are not going to be too pleased.

Since Zoey needs some attention prior to the morning rush, I'm up early again, just like during the construction. I know I've griped about not being a morning person, but I had forgotten the serenity of those early mornings. The deer are ambling by, the hillsides are covered with a silvery mist, and everything is calm and peaceful.

And during those mornings walks around the property with Zoey, I give thanks for her, For Mr. Man who insisted on her, because ultimately, he is wise and tries to do what is best for the family. I give thanks for the children who make me laugh each day, and for the friends in our lives. I even give thanks for the Juans who helped us create this oasis in the big city, and for the deer... yes, even Rupert.
Starting each day off with thankful heart has been the best thing, and I am grateful for this little dog, who has reminded me of the power of gratitude.

Left to my own devices...

2011-10-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

Mr. Man left on a "Man's Trip" to visit Mr. Uncle, and Mr. Friend, which meant I was left at home alone to hold down the fort. I think Mr. Man gets a little nervous leaving me home alone, because he is never certain what I'll do next. With my recent home project streak, I think he feared he would arrive home and find the Juan's had moved back in and the front half of the house torn down. (Oh, how I miss the Juan's, shhhh, don't tell but this Christmas I'm asking Santa to bring the Juan's back!)

While Mr. Man was gone, I just reached my breaking point with the Living Room. That fireplace makes me want to poke my eyes out, plus the living room lacks a place to be festive. I need a mantle to decorate and add some flair to the boring room. So, I became determined to make a mantle.

I started with this mantle shelf that I found in my friends garage, and after some cuts on Mr. Man's table saw, I came up with this:

Not to shabby, eh? Okay, so I'm kidding. I couldn't figure out how to pull the table saw out of the crevice Mr. Man has it wedged into, so I gave up. Then I turned to my new best friend Craig (aka Craigslist) and found several mantel's for sale. This mantel was ridiculously cheap and cost less than our dinner at Souplantation on the way to pick it up from it's owners. (Bonus, it was my dad's birthday and we took him out for his birthday, then stopped a few towns over from his house to pick up the Mantel. Souplantation was my Dad's first choice, and it was Punk Day at school, hence the blue hair on Mr. Boy.)

It only took about 10 minutes to install, took less than one minute for it to turn into a Lego Battlefield.

While I love the Mantel, especially for the price it was a steal. However, I don't love these wood decals or whatever they are. I want to pry them off., I think they are too fancy for the Chalet. What do you think?

My other problem is I'm not digging the color. This room is so very brown, and I really think I want to paint it with some white chalk paint, and paint the wall behind it a dark color... Mr. Man is voting for a deep grey-green and I'm voting for Navy.

I refuse to cover the Dorothy Chairs until I get the color palette nailed down... not to sway your vote or anything but wouldn't they look amazing with white legs and Navy velvet on them?

One thing leads to another

2011-10-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

Back in January I set out to make goals for myself for the year 2011. I'm working on it, but it has been a little slow going. I thought that the Super Ultimate Mega Summer would yield lots of time for house projects, but I'm not going to lie... I spent a good deal of time lounging by the pool. Then School started and my foul mood and the agony of trying to find my "responsible school mom groove" didn't yield to projects. However, if there is one thing I've learned about my way of grieving... I like to keep busy with projects. Plus housebreaking a puppy means you spend a lot of time outside... which made this a great project for right now.

Here is the table that I said I wanted refinished in 2011. It was supposed to be done in 2010, but well.. that year was a bit overwhelming with the Chalet Construction. This table was purchased on August 18th, 1995, over 16 years ago. It was the first piece of furniture Mr. Man and I bought together and I love it. The two tone wood might be a little dated... a little bit country... but this is The Chalet so I'm going to keep it. Here is the before picture. The island which is in the bottom right corner is a dark brown, and the pine top table clashed. (Pause for a moment to remember dear Skoopi. She always laid under the kitchen table in this house, it was her haven. I still walk in and expect to see her there.)

I refinished the table, in the same shade as the island and it. turned out great. It gives a rich feel to table and as I sanded the table, I couldn't help but reminisce all the changes this table has seen. We were young newlyweds and now..... Mr. Man is an old man.

Something didn't quite feel right about the table once it was refinished, besides the fact that Mr. Boy wouldn't move for the pics and is 4 months past due for a haircut....
I think the chairs aren't quite right.. and one thing led to another.

Then I spied these Ladder back chairs at a thrift shop, when I went on Half off Day. Yep, you read that right, I'm so cheap I went to the thrift store on half off day. I scored four of these Ladder back chairs for $10 bucks each and laughed all the way to the bank. (Not really, but still, that's a steal, no?)

Then I spray painted them with about 6,000 coats of Rust-oleum White Satin. It felt like 6,000 coats because I would pull these out spray them, and then forget about them, have to put them away at night, and then drag them out every morning to spray them again. If I had just remembered to spray them every 2 hours, it would have taken a day.

I love the end product, I ended up restaining the seats too.

Only thing is, I'm not sure which I like better after viewing them both...

Windsor Chairs or Ladder backs?

Episode IV: A New Hope for the kids to sit at the Cool Kids Table

2011-09-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

I believe that the children are our future....

and I'm pretty sure it means that means in our future, the ladies will be wearing long white robes and rocking the cinnamon roll side buns. Fashion in the future should make things pretty easy to discern who is evil, because they will be wearing a black cape.

Star Wars fever is alive and well in our house. Even Mr. Man has it and is drooling at the thought of picking up this:

Genius idea Mr. Lucas! It's AV Geek meets Star Wars Nerd to produce the most exciting invention of all time. (Next to Star Wars Legos!)

Last night as I checked on the kids before retiring for the night, I realized my kids have little hope for popularity with parents like us. Which lead me to my scientific finding.... Nerdery isn't s biological condition, but a learned one. Sorry kids... but at least you'll always have someone to battle light sabers with!

Zoey, Inspired by Mr. Man, Saved by Mr. Vet

2011-09-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

We made the decision to put Sandy to sleep after pondering the idea for several weeks. It was a decision, neither Mr. Man or Moi wanted to make. It didn't feel like it should be our decision. Mr. Man especially couldn't fathom life without Sandy or Skoopi. Unfortunately, Skoopi was starting to refuse food and we knew her time was coming to end. Sandy's body started failing and we knew that this was the right decision for her. We had never once imagined in the dog's lifetimes that they would go at the same time.

During the week of September 12th, we had an appointment for Sandy later in the week to be put to sleep. The mood around the house was blue, and tears flowed freely. We watched TV on the floor, spoiled Sandy with food she shouldn't eat, took Skoopi on hikes and spent every minute with our dogs.

The family was a wreck, no one was handling this situation well. I know, they are just dogs, but it still felt like we were losing our best friends. Mr. Man woke me up late one night and said, "We need to get a puppy right now and I found one on the internet." I went through 100 reasons why we should wait several months. Finally, he broke down and said, "I can not walk into this house without a tail wagging to greet me, I just can't. I don't think the kids can either, they don't know any different." Those words resonated, especially when Mr. Boy would greet me from school with tear filled eyes and ask, "Did Skoopi come in the car to pick me up today?"

On September 15th, we said goodbye to Sandy, and I'm not going to lie it was terrible. I had underestimated how hard it would be on the children. I hadn't planned on them reaching over to pet Sandy while playing xBox only to realize she was not there anymore. After some sound advice from a professional on children's grief, I was reassured a puppy is not going to interrupt the grieving process, it would ease the transition. Her professional opinion was, "Get a puppy, ASAP"

And so Zoey, joined our family in time for Skoopi to teach her how to take the kids to school.

And the smiles that had disappeared started to make appearances.

Among the tears of grief, there was laughter sprinkled in.

I learned there is nothing better for a grieving heart than puppy love.

On Monday, September 19th, everything went wrong. Skoopi was miserable, and we knew without a doubt what the right thing was to do. Zoey had not been feeling well that morning, and by the afternoon she was limp and lifeless. We took Zoey and Skoopi to the vet. Immediately, the vet and his team started to work on Zoey. The vet told us, "I am so sorry, this is a very sick puppy. The next 24 hours will be critical, and we won't know the outcome until then."

Then we said goodbye to the world's best dog. Skoopi eagerly and peacefully left this world. I'm convinced her first stop on the way to heaven was to get a bite to eat. She had lost half her body weight in 4 months. Then we went home, empty handed to a house with "no wagging tails there to greet us." The silence in our house that night was deafening.

The next 24 hours were miserable, waiting for word from Mr. Vet. This is the same vet that saved Sandy from Parvo 14 years ago. The vet told me later, that he did not sleep at all, knowing Zoey's life was in the balance. "This family cannot lose three dogs within five days." Zoey showing signs of Sandy's determination and Skoopi's loyalty to our family, pulled through. Mr. Vet saved her and she came home to rejoin the family she was meant to be with.

And when Mr. Man came home that night from work, there was this little tail there wagging to greet him.

Just like how it should be.

Meet Miss Puppy

2011-09-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

Meet Zoey, an impulse decision, made by Mr. Man who thought that she was a lot cheaper than all the therapy the kids are going to need after what they have experienced in the last year, or even just the last week. The kids have learned to grieve enough this year, they don't need to wallow anymore.

I'm not gonna lie, Mr. Man was right on this one. She is providing a whole lot of love to those who are hurting the most. There are broken hearts, in need of mending.

For me, this was the moment where I exhaled for the first time in a week. Thank goodness for puppy love.

Where the Red Fern Grows

2011-09-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

Dearest Skoopix,

There has been a terrible twist of fate in our house this year. Sandy was "circling the drain" for 2 years, but too stubborn to succumb. Around April we started noticing you were slimming down, you had just returned from a month with my dad, and we thought it was just the extra exercise.

After a few months we realized you were getting very thin and we started the process of trying to figure out what was going on. Every morning you would wander out the back gate and go off on your own adventure. Pretty soon, you stopped doing that, and we knew something was very wrong. Every single test came back normal. The only thing they could guess is stomach cancer. Damn Cancer. It robs me of my mom and now you. I wouldn't allow them to do the invasive procedures to confirm it and for that I am sorry but I didn't think it was fair to subject you to that.

Skoopix, you are the sweetest most loyal dog. I wish I could clone you... I wish I could fix you, but you are losing your battle. You have not eaten for a few days and you are miserable.

Even the deer have noticed the change in our house, and have been keeping a vigil for the last few days.

Skoopi, I just don't know how we are going to live without you. You are the sweetest dog, and you are my dog. You follow me everywhere, and are very content being part of the family. Shortly after we moved to Los Angeles, sensing my anxiety about sending the kids off to school, you decided to get a job. Your job was to take the kids to school, and you did it well. Every morning you sat by the car waiting to take the kids to school. You rode in the back and made sure each one got there safely. You would be right there by the car when it was time to pick up too. It was uncanny that you knew the timing of pick ups, especially considering some days I was confused on the timing.

Skoopi you are the most obedient dog. You never needed a leash on walks and you never jumped on people unlike Sandy. You never attended obedience school, but you were the most well behaved dog I've ever met. Some might say it was because your brain was too small, but Mr. Man is convinced it's because your heart is so big, you wouldn't ever want to disappoint.

Skoopi, you have been the most loyal companion and I wish I could clone you. I would love to have a whole herd of dogs like you. On my worst days you would come up and give me a little nudge to show me you care. I loved that, you were very in tune with my mood.

I could always count on you Skoopi to watch over the kids. With the exception of the last few weeks, you have been always keeping a watching eye over the children. You love them and know that they are your responsibility. You are the ultimate family dog, anxious to join in the fun.

Oh Skoopi, if I could somehow make this all go away, I would wave a magic wand in a heartbeat. I would give anything to heal you, and we tried Skoopi.

I don't know how our little family is going to go on with out you. I know in my heart it is the right thing to do, you are so miserable. It's not fair to let you suffer. When we brought you home 11 years ago, we had no idea you would and Sandy would go at the same time. You and Sandy were bonded and never liked to be apart. On vet days, you would both be kenneled together, Sandy would keep you calm and you kept Sandy out of trouble. The two of you remind me of the book Where the Red Fern Grows. I love you both so much, it is going to take a long time to heal from your passing.

Skoopi, thank you for being the most loyal faithful friend. I will miss you with all my heart, please watch over us. Until we meet again my friend.

Saying goodbye to my best friend.

2011-09-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

Dearest Sandy,

The last fourteen years have been the greatest gift and you have been a bright spot in my life. Now, we are facing some tough decisions. Sandy, your body is failing, even though your spirit is strong and willing. You are unstoppable in most situations, the most determined dog on the planet. You were diagnosed with cancer two years ago, it spread to your lungs, and you have a cough that sounds almost human. The vet gave you 4-6 weeks to live and you are too stubborn to give in. You kept on going for two more years but now I can feel the clock winding down. Going for walks is too difficult and those hind legs of yours seem to have a mind of their own.

Last month I took you to the vet for your vaccines, and the vet sat down on the floor with me, while she looked you over. She looked deep into your eyes and said, "Wendy, it's time to think about letting our old friend go. She is trapped in a body too feeble to house her big spirit." I drove home and cried saying, "I just can't do it, I can't make this decision. It's not my call."

As the month went on though, we could see signs, you are frustrated with your body, and this weekend, you took a turn for the worse.

This last month has been a gift, Sandy. You have been spoiled and pampered even more than normal. We have savored every minute of it.

Unfortunately, Skoopi has been deteriorating over the summer too, and we never thought we would lose both of you guys at the same time. You remind me of Where the Red Fern Grows , you and Skoopi just can't live without one another.

Mr. Boy is having a tough time with the thought of losing you. You are best friends. Ever since he was a baby, you would watch over him. You would sleep by his crib and come and get me when he stirred. He would lay on you and read books, and you never seemed to mind. Even now, he comes to you and "wrestles" with you in the most gentle way.

Promise me, Sandy, if I release you from this body you will not hold it against me and that you will watch over this boy from heaven. He loves you so deeply, I worry that your absence will leave a hole in his heart too big to heal. Thank you Sandy, for being his best friend.

Thank you Sandy for being my friend and companion for the last fourteen years. You were the best friend any gal could have. I know you didn't mean any ill will when you ate my earrings, 4 necklaces, and wedding rings. You are forgiven. Will you forgive me for trying to make you swim? You are a Labrador, a water dog after all.

I will miss having you lay on the couch with me every evening, You were my armrest for a thousand plus movies. You were my companion during the day and when Mr. Man was gone. Mr. Man never did figure out that you slept in our bed on the nights he was out of town. One time you jumped into our bed on accident when he was home. You saw him lying there and jumped off, giving me a look of, "Oh shoot, did I just blow our cover?"

I will miss your ears so much, how they bounced up and down when you walked. Your ears were two sizes too small, but they made your face so much more expressive.

Some speculate your ears were a side effect of your bout of Parvovirus when you were a puppy. Sandy when you were a puppy, you had been with us three days when you became extremely sick. We took you to the vet and he said, "We have a 50/50 chance of saving this dog." We put every last dime towards saving you, and it was worth it. Some vets think the Parvo stunted your ear growth, who knows, but it fits your personality so well.

There are so many things I will miss and my heart hurts thinking about you won't be there by my side. You have the snortiest snore I have ever heard. The first night we brought you home, you would howl like a dog followed by a snort that sounded just like a pig. I have always thought you were half Labrador, half Pig. Plus you have an appetite like a pig as well. You will eat just about anything, especially metal. When the kids were in highchairs you quickly learned to lay nearby to catch the falling food. You gained 10lbs with each toddler.

Mr. Man has had the toughest time coming to this decision. Sandy, we didn't want to have to do this, but we know it's the right thing to release you from your body. You can not stand it when people are in the hot tub. You come over and bark and try to get us to get out of it. It's as though you think we are being cooked to death. Last week, Mr. Man and I watched you come out of the house with wild determination to let us know, "YOU ARE BEING COOKED! GET OUT!" You climbed down the back step only to have your hind legs come out wildly flailing behind you. You flailed and ended up rolling down the step with a flip, it caused your cough to flare up. It was a sad sight to see. We want you to be able to run and jump again. Mr. Man wanted you so bad that he talked to our landlord for a year to try and get him to allow a dog. When I saw Mr. Man with you as a puppy, I knew he'd make a great father some day.

One day Sandy, we were home alone in our little house in LA. Mr. Man was gone on a trip, and there was a knock on the door at 9pm. I opened it and it was a man who claimed to be selling cleaning supplies. He told me, "Put away your dog and let me come in and clean your windows." Something didn't feel right, and you growled at him and started barking ferociously. I did not let the man in. The man then said, "Is the dog going to bite me?" I said, "Yep, I think you should move on to another house" and closed the door. I'll never know that man's intentions, but I what I do know is that you made a great guard dog, when it counted.

Sandy, I can not help but think of you when it rains. It rained non-stop when you were a puppy. That second night we had you home, it rained buckets. I got up at 3am to let you go outside to "do your business" and you just wanted to play in the mud. Mr. Man came out to join us and we stood in the rain holding hands watching you play. Mr. Man whispered, "My life just keeps getting better and better. I love my life."

Then it rained buckets as I drove you to the vet, in a box on the front seat. I had never been more terrified in my life. You prepared me for motherhood and you prepared me for those trips to the ER. You were the silent loyal companion, who was always on my side.

I know you are just a dog, Sandy. It may seem silly to write a note to you, but you are my dog and I love you. So now I am giving you a gift of going peacefully onto the next life. May we be reunited many years from now. Thank you Sandy, for the memories, for being my friend, and for loving me with your whole heart.

I need a spray paint genius!

2011-09-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

I'm posting these pics as a sneak peek into my new project and also, what in the world is WRONG with my spray paint.

Why am I getting these crackly spots all over my chairs? I'm using Rustoleum's White Satin, per my favorite faux twin sister's instructions. (Also, she is hosting the world's nerdiest yet awesomest giveaway on her blog.) For the most part it is going well, with the exception of five crackly spots. I've sanded this section down and re sprayed again, but now it's crackling again.

Anyone? Hello? Is this thing on?

Once I get this figured out, I can't wait to show you a project I decided to do on a whim one morning. Like any other project, it's led to another project, and then another. Pretty soon, I'll be tearing down the Chalet and starting all over. Somewhere Mr. Man just read that and fell over dead. Oh, who am I kidding he doesn't read my blog.

Okay, seriously, I need spray paint help! Who has the answer for me?

Dear Children, 10 years ago today on September 11th, 2001

2011-09-11T21:16:00.001-07:00

Dear Children,

Ten years ago today on September 11th, 2001, the world as I knew it changed. Tonight we talked all about the events that took place 10 years ago today, and why we should remember those who died on that tragic day.

I want you to know that there will be moments in life where everything changes in a single moment, and I want you to remember something.... America is resilient.... and you especially... are resilient. Things may change, but you have the power to make the best of things and carry on.

On the morning of September 11th, 2001, your Dad and I were getting ready for an early work day. Daddy had an early morning meeting and then he was off to the airport. It was nearly September 15th a big tax deadline for my job, and work was busy. Dad was listening to the radio while taking a shower and the radio show was talking all about how a plane had crashed in the World Trade Center Tower. Daddy had just gotten back from New York a few weeks earlier and ran out to turn on the TV in our bedroom. He told me, "That building is so tall, how are they going to repair it?" I remembered telling him, "You're dripping on the floor!" It seemed so trivial now to be worried about the wet floor.

I sat up to watch, and I couldn't fathom how they would ever put the fire out, but Dad was confident they could stop the fire. We watched the second plane hit, which just looked like an explosion. It took a few moments to realize what had just happened and then that was the moment where everything changed.

When I realized this was not an accident, but an attack, a premeditated orchestrated plot.... life as we knew it changed. Somehow, I had been the smug American who thought we were invincible, but in reality we were vulnerable to terrorist attacks just like any other nation.

At this point, Daddy had to leave for his meeting, he is ever so diligent. I sat there in bed, stunned, and scared, thinking... I should head into work, but I can't everything seems so trivial and trite.

Then there are reports that the Pentagon has been hit and I start to panic. There are lots of misreported stories, someone mentions a car bomb has gone off in front of a federal building, which was false. The White House is evacuated (true), and I remember thinking, "What do I do now?"

Flight 93 crashes into the ground in Pennsylvania and I start to panic, the attacks are moving west. I call your dad, he assures me he is on his way home. I call my friend Laura who tells me, "This is crazy... what is going on?" I then call my own dad who reassures me that I will be okay, but store some water just in case we are stuck at home for a while.*

My dear children, here is the thing that is amazing to me, ten years later I can still recall all these details and my heart pounds as I relive those moments. This was a defining moment in history, and I watched it all unfold. My tale is not harrowing, I was not in New York or on one of those flights, and for that I am filled with immense gratitude.

Your dad and I stayed home from work for three days. We were glued to the TV, watching the stories unfold, trying to figure out where some of our friends were. America is resilient, people turned to their faith, people were genuinely concerned for one another. I remember the checker at the grocery store asking me with sincerity, "How are you?" Instead of these attacks ripping us apart, it made us stronger and more united as a nation. This is the lesson I want you to take away from 9/11, learn from America. When a crisis happens to you, your family, your nation, it can either tear you apart, or make you more united. This is a choice you can consciously make as you face the trial head on and I'm hoping your remember to stand united.

May we remember those who lost their lives, their families, and may we never forget to stand united as one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Love,

Mom

*PS If Dad ever tells you his side of 9/11, he will probably tell you that he came home to find me in my Underwear, Galoshes, wearing a tin foil hat, filling up buckets of water in the backyard... I want you to remember, I don't handle emergencies well and I wasn't wearing a tin foil hat. Unfortunately, the rest is true.

Back to Stupid School

2011-09-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

Back in the days before I had children, I knew EVERYTHING about child rearing. Seriously, I was the worlds greatest mom before I had children. One childless evening, I was discussing school with a good mom friend of mine. She had five children, all school age, and was mourning the end of summer. I thought any mom would be thrilled to send her children off to school and indulge in six glorious hours of "me time."

Guess what, the "me time" is a grand illusion, because school is evil and sends home mounds of paperwork for mom to fill out. Schools often guilt you into joining organizations and take on projects that suck up the me time. Then there are other projects, house, tidying up, work, and otherwise that cut into the me time. The evil, stupid school also implements "staggered schedules" which means you drop child A off at some crazy pre-dawn hour, come home get child B ready and send off to school. Then you have about 11 minutes of "childfree time", before you have have to pick up Child A. It's probably a good thing I only have two children for now. I can barely handle.... any of it.

Then when your children arrive home, it's like the equivalent of an Ironman Triathlon trying to fit in homework, reading, scouts, tutoring, sports, dance, all into a limited amount of time before bedtime. The kicker is that at some point you are all supposed to sit down and have dinner together. Your husband comes home at some point and the house you spent your "me time" tidying up looks as though a tornado came through it. He then scratches his head and says, "Wow... I thought you would have cleaned up."

Here's the real reason I hate having the kids go back to school:

I suck at being a responsible school mom.

I love summer, I love the routine of lazy mornings, swimming in the afternoon, and everyone is in pajamas and exhausted by 6pm. We have a family dinner, read a book or two, have a Popsicle and it's off to bed.

I am terrible at homework, I feel like such a nag. I never seem to remember to send back the right paperwork at the right time. I LOATHE packing lunches, Mr. Boy doesn't like sandwiches.

DON'T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON AK'S START TIME. She starts school at 4am this year. Maybe I'm exaggerating a bit, and it's really 5am. I can not tell you how many times I got AK dressed while she was sound asleep last year, put her in the car, still snoozing... and had to jostle her awake enough to stagger into class. Then to have to do it again this year.... I'm contemplating homeschooling. I just can't do it anymore. Poor AK, comes to her senses sitting on a rainbow rug in class, fully dressed and wondering how she got there and why is she wearing the skirt that she hates. It wasn't fun last year and I have a feeling it won't get any easier this year.

My attitude totally stinks and I totally know it. When the kids were telling Mr. Man all about their teachers with enthusiasm, Mr. Man whispered in my ear, "Wouldn't it be lovely if their attitude rubbed off on you?" Touche Mr. Man... Touche!

We started the school year with our traditional back to school feast of Pancakes and Pizza. We talked about our hopes and goals for the school year. I reminded the kids that as a family, we try our best, we are obedient and most importantly we are grateful for what we have. I'm not sure they listened, but they loved their mask, and they look forward to this dinner.

We unveiled the new theme for the year, which is...

Be Dynamite! Or as Mr. Boy spells it "Dinomite!" This was Mr. Boy's favorite song over the summer, and he wanted it to be played over and over. So, this year it's our theme, to be dynamite, an all star, and try our best at everything we do.
The next morning Mr. Boy was anxious to get to school. It was a 100 degrees but he insisted on this ensemble. Seriously, I love this boy, he is stylin.

AK doing her "Toddlers and Tiara's" pose. I love that she paired this dress with loud socks and riding boots. When it came to dropping the kids off, I turned to them in the car and said, "Alright, here's your chance... we start the car right now and head down to Disneyland this very minute or school, your choice." They both picked stupid school over Disneyland. Lame.

Mr. Boy was way too cool to be seen with me. He kept saying, "Mom, I'm fine... gooooo."

I ran home after dropping them off and tried to wade my way through the pile of stuff I had stacked on my desk to be dealt with after school starts. I think I made it through 1/16th of the stack, and it was time to get AK.

She ran out with a smile on her face, and announced that this would be her best year ever! As she walked with her friend talking about the best parts of their day, I felt my attitude melt a bit. But I still couldn't help but wonder, "How many more days until summer?"

School Prep

2011-09-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

Mr. Boy has a sense of style all his own. I love it, and hope it never fades. He is passionate about his Relaxipants(tm) and over the summer got serious about Skinny Jeans. We tried out multiple pairs of skinny jeans, and they were always too big in the waist for him. Mr. Boy was running to drop something at the neighbors and his skinny jeans just shimmied on down to his knees, leaving his Underoo's exposed. I decided there has to be a better way to find good fitting skinny jeans.

I called my favorite people at Nordstrom's and said, "Help, we need skinny jeans for a skinny boy!" Their answer is always, "No problem!" and this is why I love them more than some of my relatives. My passion and love for Nordstrom's runs deep. In the pre-mom days, the Semi Annual Sale was a semi-annual Wendy Holiday, and I would take the day off from my fancy job to shop the day away. Those were the days.... a double income... no kids... lots of me time... no homework... no school...no afternoon sports... but I digress.

Mr. Boy was ushered into a dressing room with outfits laid out, he was told to point to the things he liked. He quickly pointed, "Yes, No, not that... Yes, more skater please." Then two ladies got to work grabbing clothes, while Mr. Boy tried on super mega skinny jeans. Of course, they brought accessories, belts, a watch, sunglasses, beanies, and shirts. Mr. Boy loved being catered to, and AK was in heaven with a lady who brought her clothes to try on. Mr. Boy stood there sucking on a juice box in front of a three way mirror with a pair of shiny new jeans on and said, "Mom, this is the LIFE!" I know, son, I know, I know just how you feel. And the next generation of Nordstroms shoppers is born!

**Disclaimer** I received zero compensation from Nordstroms. However, are you aware the personal shopping service is free? They work with any budget, and I love it. If anyone from Nordstroms sees this and would like to pay me, please pay me in shoes.

The school supply list is always one of the dark clouds looming over the Super Mega Ultimate Summer. I swear the teachers always put one or two items on the list that are like the hot toy at Christmas that people go into a frenzy over and end up stabbing someone in the aisles of Toys R Us for the last Tickle Me Elmo.

This year it was Scotch Brand Jumbo Glue Sticks and 16 count Crayons. All the "Back to School" sales have 24 count crayons for a quarter, but 16 count crayons remain $3.79 a pack. To make matters worse there are only 2 stores in all of Los Angeles that carry the 16 count crayons, but you can buy 24 count crayons at any store including 7-11. It kills me and I need four packs of the stupid crayons. As for the glue sticks... I'm convinced they do not actually exist.

This year, I threw open the window and said, "I'm mad as Hell and I can't take it anymore!" I decided to buck the system. This year, I'm sending 30 packs of 24 count Crayons. The kicker... those 30 packs only cost me $6 bucks, all the other kids parents spent $12 on 4 packages of crayons. Mr. Boy's class will have enough 24 count crayons for every student, and every kid will have eight more color options when they color in their picture of Christopher Columbus.

I have a theory that Mr. Boys class will all grow up into something great. CEO's, Doctor's, Supreme Court Justices, and it will all be because they had more choices for crayon colors in 3rd grade. Or at least that is what I tell myself to assuage the guilt I feel. Tell me I did the right thing or will my children forever be known as the kids with the "Rebel Mother"?

Something to celebrate

2011-08-28T16:37:00.000-07:00

On the eve of AK's sixth birthday, her very first tooth wiggled it's way out. She was beyond excited and wanted to write a letter to the tooth fairy, which included thought provoking questions such as, "Do you like Sharks? Did I lose my sweet tooth?"

On her birthday we had friends over to swim, and that evening we went out to In-N-Out and had cupcakes. See that massive pile of gifts, I only bought one of those gifts. Mr. Man totally spoils his girls and he came home with a plethora of gifts for AK.

She made her wish and I'm pretty sure it was for a "pink horse with friendly brown eyes".

The following day it was a day of love as Mr. Man and I celebrated our wedding anniversary. Mr. Man took me to a swanky dinner on the town, while Auntie Cinnamon babysat. While we were gone, the kids got to work decorating the house.

This is my favorite, with the kids and dogs.

While we were at dinner, Mr. Man and I paused to remember that six years ago we brought this cute girl home from the hospital on our tenth anniversary. She was the best anniversary gift ever. We didn't want to leave her while we went out for dinner, so we brought her with us and just went out for Ice Cream later that night. The store was just getting ready to close, and Mr. Man, pleaded, "Please it's our 10th Anniversary, and we just brought this baby home from the hospital."

They obliged and Mr. Man and I toasted ten years of marriage over a Hot Fudge Sundae. Originally, I had high expectations of a swanky dinner, possibly a vacation for our 10th anniversary. However, sitting in a strip mall Baskin Robbins with a brand new baby in my arms with my husband seemed like no better way to celebrate the occasion.

AK turns six!

2011-08-09T21:24:00.001-07:00

Dearest AK,

On the occasion of your sixth birthday, I sit down to write you a note to tell you how much I love you. Six years ago today, you were placed in my arms and I knew you were the piece of my heart that had been missing. You have a spunky personality and are such an amazing gift to our family. You have a zest for life that is contagious and you are such a genuinely happy girl.

You have a flair for drama, and will make up the most amazing stories. I have had many people tell me you need to go in show business, and they might be right. This summer, we went to see a movie, and you later re enacted an entire scene verbatim for you dad. We have been instructed to help you "find your passion" and at this point it is hard to narrow it down.

You are passionate about so many things, horses, singing, dancing, and you have the biggest imagination. This past year you have told many sob stories to strangers, teachers, and friends that have resulted in many phone calls that start with, "AK was telling me all about.... " People are amazed at your imaginative story telling, and have asked if I ever thought about having you write soap operas.

Last year I was unsure whether or not I should send you to Kindergarten, my gut knew that you weren't ready, but you were so social, it seemed like we should give it a try. Hooray! You get to do Kindergarten again this year! AK listen to your gut, it always knows the right answer, however I do not regret sending you to Kindergarten when I did. We learned a lot about you and it gave everyone time to figure out how we can best help you. AK, there are struggles that lay ahead for you, but you need to listen to me very carefully.... You are going to be OKAY.

AK, you have this resilient strong and fighting spirit that you have had since the day you were born. You have an unbelievable will to survive and conquer. You have a feisty spirit and I love it. You do not back down when it is important, and will hold your ground. Here is the best thing I love about you AK, something I struggle with... If it is not important to you, you will give in. You let it go, which is a concept that I'm still struggling with as an adult.

Kindergarten was challenging this year, especially the early start time. You love your beauty sleep and did not like to be woken up. Many mornings I dressed you while you slept and even popped you into the car while dozing. You go to bed early, so it's not like we just kept you up too late, you just really love your sleep. It takes a lot of energy to be you, and so you needed that time to recharge. There are some nights though, you just want to party all night. We can't figure out what causes it, but there are some evenings you stay up in your room singing to yourself until midnight. The neighbors have also noticed your late nights as they have heard the window open and a little voice saying, "Helloooooooooo." You love to ask them where they were and if they had fun. They always encourage you to go to bed, but you like to tell them, "I can't sleep, tell me a story."

You will try anything once and are eager to do anything that puts you in the spotlight. This past summer while in San Francisco, we drove slowly down the windy Lombard Street. With the windows rolled down, I taught you the funniest thing ever invented. You leaned out and in your sweet voice, said, "Pardon me" to all the tourists who were standing on the sidewalk snapping pictures, "Do you have any Grey Poupon?" You never batted an eye and we all laughed hysterically.

AK, I want you to know how much we love you. You have taught me so much about life and I hope I can teach you some things in return. We live in the most amazing place and the world is full of opportunities. I hope your self confidence and spunky spirit never fades. I pray it will carry you through Junior High and High School, and you can emerge your teenage years filled with the self confidence to be a success in the world.

I love you,

Mom

Lessons learned from my father: Mortification

2011-08-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

My dad. *sigh* I can’t even say the word dad these days without sighing. It’s a reflux. At some point, I need to write it all down, vent… share… laugh so that my future generations can be like, “SHUT UP, our great great grandfather made my great grandma drive his trash in the passenger seat of her car all the way home, because his trash day was still three days away. That doesn’t make sense! I know future posterity, I know. Save yourself a fortune in therapy and just don’t try to make sense of it all.

My Dad went from grieving widow to single man on the prowl in about 60 seconds (or six weeks). It threw me for a loop, a big one, I mean… a really, really big one. Now, after some time, therapy, lots of tears and laughter, I get it. I mean, I don’t like it, I don't approve, but I understand to a degree. In his engineer brain, he is like, “Problem: No spouse and excess loneliness. Solution: Find new Spouse on Internet. If you don’t at first succeed, try try again. “

And as for “Try Try Again” my Dad is trying really hard to get married, the problem is he is good looking, financially stable, and has all his hair. In other words, the more mature crowd finds my dad to be a catch. The craziest of the ladies seem to be the most aggressive and eager to get the golden ring. It’s a roller coaster and every lady seems to have a need of some sort. For example: A green card, money to pay off a mountain of debt, a place to live.

Unfortunately, his marriage obsession has made our relationship a little bit rocky. I didn’t expect he would be ready to get his dance card punched six weeks after my mom’s passing. We are working on this, but essentially my dad keeps referring to my “mental state!”. “I’m very concerned about your mental state!” “What does Mr. Man think of your mental state!?” “You are in a mental state! I have never heard you so upset.”

Whew.. all this is leading up to something, but wow, I just had to let that all out. Now for the lesson I learned from my dad.

My dad was obsessed with Dr. Laura, and when her radio show went off the air, he was devastated. Thanks to Oprah and daytime television, now my dad has found a new replacement for his devotion in the form of Dr. Oz. Now Dr. Oz, is nice and all, but his ratings are in the tank, which means his topics are meant to sensationalize and draw in the mostly female TV audience. Dr. Oz is always talking about Women’s health, couple that with my mental state! And it results in my dad obsessing about my health.

The other day, my brother, dad, and I were sitting in an attorney’s office discussing my mother’s estate. This is not an attorney that knows our family beyond a few phone calls. Mr. Attorney turned to type up some notes in his computer, and there is silence.

My dad turns to me and says, “Wendy, who is monitoring your health? Is it your OB/GYN? Does he monitor your health monthly, annually? And is he aware of your mental state? You aren’t taking any of those synthetic hormones, are you? Dr. Oz says those will make you crazy.”

At this point, I turned beet red and wonder if Dr. Oz ever did a show about people who actually died of embarrassment. The attorney graciously ignores my dad’s outburst of concern for my health and carries on. Since when has my dad been so concerned with woman’s health, especially my health? It’s something we haven’t ever discussed. This is the moment I learn you are never too old to be humiliated by your parents.

Dear Summer,

2011-08-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Summer,

You know that I adore you,already. Is it possible that I fell even more madly in love with you this season?

Please, my dear summer, please don't make me send these beach lovin' kids back to school just yet. We are having too much fun!

Truly, Deeply, Madly... in Love with you,

Moi

Slice of Life

2011-07-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

Right after we moved in, we bought a salt lick and mounted it on a tree on the hillside thinking we would have a herd of deer addicted to our salt lick. According to my worthless deer book, Salt Lick's are the equivalent of deer crack. Our deer, don't follow the deer norm, and the Salt Lick looked untouched. A few weeks ago Mr. Boy and I were setting out some deer chow for our mommy deer. Those poor mommy deer, they are dealing with bickering fawns all day long. Not only that, they can't seem to keep on top of the housekeeping, and dread taking the fawns out to run errands. Those fawns turn into little devils when it's time to go to the grocery store.

Ahem... maybe I'm projecting a bit. Anyway, Mr. Boy and I were up by the Salt Lick tree, and I dared Mr. Boy to lick the "still looks new salt lick". He double dog dared me, and next thing you know we are both licking the salt lick and falling over with laughter. Last week I found this buck going to town on the deer lick, which immediately left a bad taste in my mouth. I'm afraid I've ingested deer cooties, and if I sprout antlers, we will know why. Apparently, the salt lick wasn't going unused, they just last a really really long time.

Mr. Boy turned 8, which means he started Cub Scouts. His first activity was the pinewood derby, where we learned that it is serious business. Needless to say, Mr. Boy is hooked on scouts. Last night, they had a "Pack Meeting" where boys were handed awards for activities they had passed off. I guess they don't do merit badges at this age yet.

Mr. Boy was enthralled with the pins and belt loops, and said, "I'm going to earn a ton of them, Mom." When we got home, he proceeded out the back gate and up the hillside. When I asked what he was doing he replied, "Leave me alone Mom, I'm Cub Scouting. This is for my hiking merit badge. Oh, and Mom, do we have a gun, I think I'll do my hunting badge too."

One of the things I love about the Chalet, is the freedom it provides my children. The neighbors are all a close knit group and raised their children together. (All their kids are now grown and my age!) The neighbors have welcomed us and love my kids. We often joke this neighborhood came with a cul de sac full of grandparents who spoil our kids. It is not uncommon for us to have impromptu neighborhood gatherings and I love it.

Yesterday at 2 o'clock, just as I was getting ready to leave to run errands, the doorbell rings. It is our neighbor, dressed in a swimsuit who says, "I was told there was a swim party at 2pm?" AK comes running out in her swimsuit and says, "HOORAY! You came!" She grabs his hand and says, "Mom, for our party we would like Root Beer and licorice." So, we all put on swimsuits, drank soda, ate licorice and had a swim party, because what else do you do when people are expecting a pool party.

Leave it to AK, to decide while roaming the front yard to spice up the day with an impromptu party. Our neighbor arrived home to be greeted by AK, who announced that we were having a party at 2pm, and would he please come. No one can resist AK and her kryptonite smile, so he blew off his afternoon to do list to join us. It was sweet, although a little awkward, when he realized the party was just for him. One of the things AK has taught me, is that there are ways to make the day more fun.

I am not a baker, but my kids love me anyway.

2011-07-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

I can not bake, it's just not one of my talents, as evidenced by the picture below. It was the day of Mr. Boy's 8th Birthday party and two hours prior to the guests arrival, this was "cake wreck" I was dealing with. I made the cake myself, can you tell?

Mr. Boy wanted a "Harry Potter" birthday complete with a broomstick cake. We've spent the lazy summer twilight hours watching Cake Boss, Cupcake Wars, and Ace of Cakes. I had the genius idea to make a broomstick out of a Twix bar and some melted Starburst. In my head it looked like one of those cakes you see on TV. Once I actually executed my broomstick, I started to panic. The cake was falling apart and I just added my "pièce de résistance" and it looked rather phallic, if you know what I mean. *wink*

Mr. Man came in and tried to rescue it, but nothing could save it except for a trip to the bakery for a replacement.

We bought a replacement, but decided we should go ahead and put a Harry Potter Spin on the disaster, so we called it Dobby's Cake Creation.

We also served Pumpkin Juice, which all the kids tried and loved. It was really peach lemonade.

Mr. Boy really wanted a Harry Potter Party, but we just had spent a trillion dollars on the pool, so we had a Harry Potter Pool Party. I even hired a lifeguard for peace of mind, which was genius. Lucky for us, one of the many hats Aunt Cinnamon wears, happens to be "Lifeguard", plus she only requires cake as payment.

I learned a valuable lesson, kids will eat cake, no matter how it looks. They all preferred Dobby's cake over the pretty bakery cake.

All the kids were smitten with Sandy, she conned them into all the leftovers.

On the day of his actual birthday, we took Mr. Birthday Boy to Whimsic Alley to be fitted for a wand. The wandmaker insisted he also needed glasses. We mortgaged the house and succumbed to the pressure to outfit our Jr. Harry Potter.

At 9:01pm, the exact moment he turned eight, we had cake and opened presents.

And what did Mr. Birthday Boy get? Harry Potter Legos of course!

Dear Mr. Boy, Now you are Eight!

2011-07-09T22:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Boy,

On your birthday, I sit to write you a note to tell you how much I love you. Today we watched a video your dad and I made three days after you were born. In that video, we talked about the miraculous way you entered our lives. You came via a birth mother that we love very much and give thanks for every single day. I tell you this every year, but the doctor said you would arrive between 6-8pm, but no later than 9pm. You had to come into the world on your own terms at 9:01PM. This has been such an indicator of what the rest of your life would be like. You are a born leader, anxious to lead and do things on your terms. Your fun personality, naturally draws people to you and each and every day you make me laugh out loud. We have so much fun together and I love being with you.

Last year on your birthday, we didn't even have a kitchen to bake your cake! We were hunkered down in two rooms, and you often woke up to one of the Juan's hammering outside your window, or even one time, in your room. You went with the flow, and for that I am grateful. Now the house is done, and you love having your own room with a desk for the first time in your life. You begged for a Star Wars room for two years, and then you discovered Harry Potter. Just as the last set of Star Wars pillow shams arrived, you declared that you were all done with Star Wars, and you wanted a Harry Potter room. We have tried to teach you over the year, you can be loyal to more than one thing, but it's a concept you struggle with. You can love Harry Potter and Star Wars, and the world won't fall apart. Your loyalty is so admirable Mr. Boy, and I know it will serve you well as you grow up.

This year, we got serious about Sports and signed you up for Soccer and Baseball, and did sport type camps. You are naturally talented at sports, and it has been a dream come true for your father. When we sat with our social worker to discuss the traits and characteristics we were hoping for in a child, I said, I wanted a healthy baby. Your dad said, "I want an athlete!" You have athletic roots from both your bio parents, and as I watch you learn a new sport and quickly succeed, I thank the stars above for your athletic talent.

You are strong willed and a born leader, and not afraid to speak your mind. Learn from your mama, learn to bite your tongue. During one of your baseball games, you tagged a player out and proceeded to smack talk the player as he walked back to the dug out. You even threw down your glove, as you started to go at it with the player. He had provoked you a bit, and I sat in the bleachers and watched you, mortified. Deep down, I knew you got that fiesty spirit from me, but one of the best lessons I ever learned is knowing when to keep your mouth shut. It's a tough lesson, and that was a great opportunity to teach you the basic concepts. I look back on that experience and laugh now, because it is just so typical of your personality. You don't back down, and you don't take no easily for an answer. It's a tough thing as a mom, to learn to teach you "No means No", without breaking the persistance and drive that is so innate in your personality. I remind you again, that as your parents, we are doing the best we can. There is no instruction manual for kids, and every child is so different. I realized most parents have NO IDEA what they are doing, but we are all trying our best. Here is hoping it's good enough, if not, you can either go to college or use that money for therapy, your choice.

You and AK... *sigh* You are the best of friends and worst of enemies. You annoy her to no end, and she annoys you right back. All day long you will complain about your pesky sister, but at the same time you are her biggest fan and will protect her at any cost. She is lucky to have you, and you are lucky to have her. I hope when you read this as an adult, you will remember that your sister is your most loyal friend. She has such a deep and unconditional love for you, and a big heart. You are both fun-seekers and I am hoping that when you are grown, you will travel the world together. You both have a zest for life, and quest to try new things, I know that both of you will succeed in life.

Mr. Boy, a few weeks ago you attended a Soccer Camp led by professional soccer players from the UK. I watched you play and talked to one of the other dad's there. He sighed, "I just don't think my son realizes just how amazing this opportunity is." This sums up exactly my fear of raising you in Los Angeles. Do you realize just how fabulous your life is? I know I remind you of this all the time. Living here provides us with so many opportunities very few kids get the chance to experience. Not everyone gets the chance to see all the props from the Harry Potter movies, visit movie sets, swim all year round, learn soccer from the Pro's, and know famous actors only as, "Pete's Dad". Don't forget to be humble and be grateful as you grow up. I know you hear this 100 times a day from me, "Mr. Boy, Be nice, Be grateful." but these traits of a true hero.

I am excited for the upcoming year for you. On Sunday, you will be baptized in our church and we keep talking about how from that point on, when you do wrong, it will "count". This thought terrifies you, as you are still learning self control. You complain, that it's hard to be nice to AK all the time. Mr. Boy, I have no doubt you will be just fine and grow into a man with good character. At the heart of your exuberant personality is a heart of gold. You care deeply for those you love and are compassionate to those around you.

All day long you ask questions, you never stop. Your mind is always going a mile a minute. You ask the most thought provoking questions and often times I have to look up the answers. Most of them are about Harry Potter these days, but they are also about life and other major events. You are fascinated with Egypt and the Titanic, and we often have discussions centered around, "Would you rather this or that?" Your questions exhaust me, but I often am reminded it is just a sign of an intelligent and inquisitive mind.

Mr. Boy, on your birthday, I am reminded again, I am the luckiest mom in the world. Each day I gave thanks for you and your sister. Both of you, have changed who I am for the better. You have taught me to be nice, be more grateful and to be more patient. Hopefully, I can teach you those same attributes over your lifetime, if not, your children will teach you them, I am sure of that.

I love you.

Love, Mom.

Reason #1,789 why I love him

2011-07-08T22:37:00.000-07:00

Reason #1,789 why I love Mr. Man, he is a great dad.

He asks his daughter to dance at a local street fair, and because she loves it, he doesn't stop until she is all danced out.

Santa Barbara, The Place Where I Belong

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

You can take me down,

You can show me your home,

Not the place where you live,

But the place where you belong.

"Something to Say" ~Toad the Wet Sprocket~

Oh Santa Barbara, how I love thee. The Pueblo architecture, gorgeous ocean, and mountain views. Even though the Chalet feels like home, so does Santa Barbara. This is the place where I grew up. Just as I drive past Summerland on the 101 Fwy, I feel a peace as though my heart is at home.

We spent the afternoon at the beach, where I let a whole lot of my grief flow out to the ocean. It was a very healing afternoon, and when I left the beach, I left a good portion of my sadness and depression behind. I felt 10 times better and the spring returned to my step. We visited a favorite hangout for dinner, and the food replenished my soul. I went to bed that night, and woke up the next day and felt like my old self had returned. I was full of energy and life. Santa Barbara has always been my "healing place." I have come there before with a heavy heart and felt like I could leave my troubled mind behind, returning refreshed.

We fed the giraffes, and I have never been able to get over the luxurious life of a giraffe at the Santa Barbara Zoo. They have a world class view, that people pay millions for. I was excited to see the lion and lioness that I saw two years ago.

The lioness was without her mate last time due to an illness, they had taken the lion to the vet station on the other side of the zoo. The lioness roared and paced, anxious to be with her mate. This agitated lioness reminded me of myself and Mr. Man. I came back from that trip and said, "Mr. Man, it's time to get serious about a house in Los Angeles." It was sweet to see the Lion and Lioness sleeping next to each other on a rock. I couldn't get a good pic, and they were so sweet, I didn't want to disturb them.

The Santa Barbara Zoo has the coolest hill, covered in Astroturf, meant for sliding and surfing down. I love it, and am starting to wonder if maybe we should cover some of the hills behind our house with astroturf and make it into a big slide.

Mr. Boy was a natural after a few attempts.

We always hit Palazzio's for dinner while in Santa Barbara.

The kids always gobble up the garlic rolls, by the dozen, and the pasta is to die for. We had rousing discussions over pasta, "Would you rather be shot with an arrow, or attacked by a shark?" "Would you rather be stung by a jellyfish or a stingray?" Even the waiters weighed in, and "Would you rather... " has become a favorite dinner game in our house. I never can get enough of their food, and I brought home a cooler full of pasta and rolls for Mr. Man.

It's become tradition to photograph the children with their zoo souvenir on these steps.

AK wanted a baby cheetah that she calls, "Cheeto" and of course Mr. Boy picked a snowy owl that looked just like Hedwig from Harry Potter.

The kids loved hearing stories about when I lived in Santa Barbara. I told them all about taking Sailing Lessons in this harbor, and how one time I had to be rescued by the Coast Guard. Or about the time I dated a boy who was not very polite, and how I contemplated jumping off the wharf just to be able to end the date.
There were lots of moments of contemplation. Mr. Boy and I both agree this is the most beautiful spot in all of California. AK says, "It's almost as pretty as Disneyland."

I can't even tell you how much healing I feel took place during this trip. I was able to really enjoy the kids and we laughed a lot.

I loved watching AK walk around with her enormous hat and cowgirl boots. She later became "Santa Barbara-fied" and traded them in for flip flops.

Mr. Boy loved swimming in the ocean, and learned to body surf. He shares my passion for the beach.

AK is growing up into a gorgeous girl. Her laugh melts my heart.

When it came time to leave Santa Barbara, I came back a different person than when I had left. Even Mr. Man noticed it and said, "You look all shiny and new! I'm so glad to see the girl I know and love back."

Sometimes, all you need is a trip back home to renew the soul.

Beach Therapy

2011-07-06T06:01:00.000-07:00

My mother passed away a little over four months ago and I can't figure out why it is still so hard. Why do I feel a sharp pain in my chest every time I stumble across her handwriting or a forgotten picture. Why is my grief still so raw after four months?

Last week I had to peel myself out of bed each day after a hearty pep talk with my inner self. I have to remind myself to laugh, find joy, and create fun each day. This is not me and it's a not my normal mode of operation. I asked Mr.Man, "Is it post party blues?" He said bluntly,"No, it's your grief, you can't stifle it with projects anymore." I didn't like that answer so I gave him the cold shoulder.

A chance encounter with an acquaintance, gave me a very candid, "the sooner you face this head on, the better off you'll be" pep talk. I was flabbergasted. How dare she say that to my face... but deep down, I wondered, is my grief really that obvious.

Then came my annual summer trip to Santa Barbara, I was being very wishy washy. Should I even go? I didn't want to put forth the effort....but why?

Then it hit me, Santa Barbara is filled with memories of mom. I can't do it. It is too hard to go back there. Memories of my youth spent in that city are interwoven with memories of my mom.

I stayed wishy washy until the very last minute and then, I took a deep breath yelled to the kids, "Pack your bags!" And we left.

We hit my favorite beach that afternoon. While the kids played, I stuck my feet in the sand and did something I haven't done in a long time. I talked to God and to my grief and said, "This is so hard. I don't want to do this anymore. I don't want to grieve or be sad anymore."

I'm stuck in the somewhere in the anger or depression phase of grieving. I just can't do it anymore. I am so mad and sad at so many aspects of the last few months. And what has all that anger and sadness produced? Nothing, except for a killer reflex of trying to stifle it.

My mom firmly believed that sitting on the beach for a few hours was just like attending therapy sessions. I am not sure if that works for me, but I know I felt the oceans healing power. With my toes in the water I imagined all my anger dripping out my toes and into the ocean. I am trying to let it go. I was sad and angry my mom died too fast, too young, too soon. But there is nothing I can do, what is done is done. I am not in charge of this world and I have to live my life. I have to accept the things I cannot control. So, I have to move on, and honor my mom by living my very best life. A life filled with the vibrancy she bestowed upon me.

Plus I don't have time for all this sad moping, I've got to show the kids my favorite hangouts from my youth and teach them how to body surf.

Independence Day

2011-07-05T10:04:00.000-07:00

Last year we celebrated the Fourth of July, by sticking a flag in the mountain of dirt.

There were piles of rubble every where you looked, that pile of rubble is my old kitchen.

We came home from our classy dinner at some local fast food place to find the neighborhood alive with parties. Our neighbors were all hosting parties, and invited us to join them. We had no idea that just behind our house, the city launches a firework show. We joined the Neighbor-steins for a viewing party.

This year was much different. We swam and played around our house. The whole neighborhood was out setting up for their parties. We weren't trapped behind the Big Construction Fence and we could holler back and forth, while I did some gardening. "Sure, I have some folding chairs! Can I borrow an egg?" Can you spot the new plants under the kitchen window? I was so excited to plant a flower bed, but can't believe how tiny the plants are. I have a problem with concept of scale, when it comes to design.

This picture is classic AK & Mr. Boy. AK with her darling little dress, wearing flaming dragon shoes. She is totally dialed into her inner punk. Mr. Boy is wearing his super skinny jeans, holding his Harry Potter book, and looks annoyed to have me talking to him. That pretty much sums up his attitude these days.

After dinner at Uncle Mikes, we decided not to mess with tradition and went over to the Neighborstein's house to watch the fireworks. After the show, we met up with the neighbors and their friends in the cul de sac and watched the shows going off all over the city. The sky was dotted with fireworks everywhere. Have I mentioned how much I love my house lately? And where I live? Life is good in the big city.

Christmas in July

2011-07-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

I was scrolling through some old pics and found these from Christmas.

I think I better check out the centerfold of "Rock Star Santa", I was pretty sure it was a children's book.

But after seeing AK's reaction, now I'm not so sure.

Some might call this a pool party....

2011-06-22T06:18:00.000-07:00

Some might call this a pool party....

but for those having "The Super Mega Ultimate Summer"... this is also known as Tuesday.

The Raddest Surprise

2011-06-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

I've been working every spare minute on a huge project. If you will recall, when Mr. Man turned 40 last November, I swore I would throw him a surprise party in the summer. Listen, I never break promises and I never wear black & navy together.
This surprise party was a huge undertaking with over 50 guests, and guests arriving from 5 different states. Have you met Mr. Man? Let me tell you something, Mr. Man is a homebody, he can't stand running errands, and doesn't like to leave the house unless he has to. How on earth would I pull off a surprise party with Mr. Man home all the time?
Enter my genius idea... Mr. Man is a generous man, who will do most anything if asked nicely. So one of his very dear friends asked if we would host an 80's theme party for the youth (ages 14-18) of our church. Mr. Man said yes, and happily helped set up for what turned out to be his very own party. Lots of people ended up having to lie to Mr. Man, and what good lying friends I have, they all did their job beautifully. Mr. Man had NO clue as he worked so hard.

From 6:30-7:15, guests were stashed at the Neighbor-steins house. That was a last minute decision, as Mr. Man was supposed to be outside setting up his DJ equipment for the dancing portion of the evening. However, he finished the set up early, and was lolly gagging around in the bustling kitchen while I panicked and watched people drive up. Cinnamon was gracious enough to stealthly deliver the guests to the Neighbor-steins. The Neighbor-steins were dressed to the nines, I love them so much, you have no idea how awesome this little tiny neighborhood is. Mr. Neighbor-stein was dressed like Michael Jackson, with the sequined glove and socks.

At 7:15, I thought I was going to have a nervous breakdown trying to hide everyone. I got the guests while Mr. Uncle went out to distract Mr. Man with some questions about equipment.

The dozen or more guests who arrived on time gathered in our drab boring living room. Their jazzy 1980's outfits really snazzed up the room, I'm thinking I need to add some 80's flair in there.

I went and got Mr. Man and begged him for help cutting up watermelon. He was shocked, when everyone said, "SURPRISE, HAPPY BIRTHDAY"

It took just a minute for everything to click, and he realized, "Wait, this is a party for me? For what? My birthday was 6 months ago."

I cannot believe I pulled it off. It took oodles of white lies, and I had to be incredibly nosey for weeks to find out just who Mr. Man hangs out with at work, basketball, and socially. Mr. Man doesn't talk a whole lot, so it took some stealth detective work. Mr. Man may never trust me again, but who cares I did it! I pulled off the "Ultimate 80's Surprise Party!"

And look at how happy he is greeting his guests!

Our guests had THE BEST costumes. This is Mrs. Neighbor-steins socks!

We had lots of fun activities for people to do at leisure. A Coke vs. Pepsi taste test.

Mr. Boy helped man the firepit and helped serve s'mores.

We had Atari's set up for our friends to play on, 80's Rock Band, and a yearbook (photobook) for people to sign.

By far the most popular activity was the "Glamour Shots by EllJayJay." She was awesome, and captured the most insanely awesome pictures of our guests in all their glamour glory.

I could not have done the party without a whole host of people, including Cinnamon, who was able to track down some missing guest contact info. Here is Cinnamon with Super Cute Pregnant Jill. (Hi Jill's mom,Lynn!)

I was tempted to push these gentlemen into the pool, but I tried to be a gracious host.

That's a lot of candles!

Happy Belated Birthday Mr. Man!

All in all, it was a huge success. Totally worth all the time and effort. Happy Belated Birthday Mr. Man!

My Newest Project

2011-06-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

I have been working every spare minute on a project and I can not wait for the unveiling in the next few days. Not even Mr. Man is in the loop on this one, I thought it would be best to ask for forgiveness rather than permission on this one. Although, I can't forsee he isn't going to be anything but super supportive.

I've been waking up in the middle of the night, because I am so excited about this. It reminds me of when I was kid, and super excited about an upcoming trip, I couldn't wait.

The anticipation is killing me, but this picture should be a hint. If you know what I'm referring to, because you have been brought into my circle of trust, please don't spoil it! Check back in a few days for the unveiling!

Deer Rupert, It's not you, it's me.

2011-06-13T13:54:00.000-07:00

Deer Rupert,
This is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I think we have to break up. It's like, I don't even know who you are anymore.
For example:
The other night, we were hanging out with Jane, making some s'mores by the firepit. It was nice to relax, because I had been up on the hillside planting Orange Trees all afternoon. .

Jane's babies were up the hill a ways, she likes to rest down by our house. I think she feels a kinship with me, because she is wrangling two kids all day long.

Then you came along, and as always, I was excited to see you. Rupert, you were my very favorite deer.

I thought it was sweet that you wanted to sniff my work. According to my "Deer Resistant Landscaping" book, you don't like citrus trees. Well, my book lied, and you munched those trees right down to stubs, while I watched. Were you doing it out of spite? Have I not fed you enough Molasses Oats or Deer Chow? Kept your watering trough clean enough?

I ran over and yelled at you, "Stop! Knock it off!" and you just stared at me, with a blank look in your eye. It's like you don't even care about me anymore. I did this for you, I imagined a hillside covered in fragrant orange blossoms, and sold my very best shoes to buy the best trees out there.... for you. I did it for you... and for me, just a little bit.

Rupert, I hope we can be friends again some day. I really thought we had something special, but right now, I need some time. Maybe some time, a windfall of cash to buy new trees and a new safe spot to plant them, will heal these wounds.

Goodbye Rupert, You will always have a special place in my heart. Love, Mademoiselle Francais

The Super Mega Ultimate Summer

2011-06-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

Last Summer was an adventure. We were right in the middle of Chalet Construction and I was mistaken for being homeless. I had to wake up early to greet the crew of Juans and was up late painting or trolling the aisles of the 24 hour Home Depot. I have declared this "The Super Mega Ultimate Summer" to make up for last year. Everyone but Mr. Man is sleeping in past Nine AM, and we are in the pool multiple times a day. I have cleared the calendar and declared that errands will only be run one day a week.

We are spending lots of time lounging around and reading. Mr. Boy is deep into the Harry Potter Series. He spends more time reading than he does playing these days.

We spend our days making goofy faces at the deer, and see if they make them back at us. This is Uncle Buck, and take my word for it, he is Huge.

At dusk, we hike in the hills for firewood for the firepit.

The brush is so tall you can hide in it. Everyone loves playing in the hills.

And just when you think the hills could not get anymore beautiful, they get mowed down for fire season. I think this has to be the worst job in the world and it makes the hillside ugly.

And it makes Rupert super grouchy.

It makes our daily game of hide and go seek, not nearly as fun. Rupert's kind of a sore loser.

Vive la Super Mega Ultimate Summer!

Chalet Appreciation: The Backyard

2011-06-01T22:59:00.000-07:00

It was a year and one month ago that Mr. Man & I embarked on this construction project. Would I do it again? Yes, in a heartbeat. The Juans have been gone for three weeks and I miss them terribly.

Mr. Man + The Juans = The perfect husband.

I had lunch with the Juans during the day, they unloaded my groceries, and they did all the odd jobs on my "Honey Do" List. Mr. Man would bring home the bacon, eat dinner and spend the evenings with me. It was the perfect combo, and I miss them. I love Mr. Man, but he takes forever to fix a wobbly shelf.

This old backyard is a thing of the past.

I still can't get over how big this yard is. Once we cleared out the Oleanders and added a retaining wall, it's huge. Most city lots have room for grass OR a pool OR a sports court. I feel beyond blessed to have room for all three.

I had grand hopes of a pool, and my wish came true. We ended up moving it over a few feet, and I love it.

The pool was the perfect place to spend Memorial Day weekend. My brother was in town with his family and we spent lazy afternoons in the pool.

Everyone is enjoying the pool, even Skoopi and Mr. Man. Yes, the same Mr. Man who said, "If we put in a pool it will be over my dead body." I promise he is alive and well.

We had the neighbors join us at the last minute for a BBQ. We were all still in swimsuits as we entertained our guests, which is just exactly how it should be. The kids roasted hot dogs and marshmallows over the firepit. I kept catching Mr. Man's eye and we exchanged knowing looks. This is just what we imagined, family, friends, neighbors all relaxed and enjoying themselves. We wanted a house that felt like we were permanently on vacation, a place for our friends to come and rest their bodies and soul.

The deer wandered by for a drink and a snack, hawks circled overhead, and I still can't get over how secluded we are.

Yet after a few twists and turns, we are right there in the city and at night, the city lights twinkle down below.

Is it entirely possible to be totally smitten with your house? If so, I am one smitten kitten.

Shoes, Soda, and my Search for Sanity

2011-05-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt in a very humorous mood, and I don't want to write and be Debbie Downer.

Bottom Line: Even the most fabulous lives have challenges. My dad who I was wrought with worry and concern is seriously dating a woman he met on the internet, just a mere few weeks after my mom's passing. More like days...after the funeral. It's thrown me for a loop to say the least. I need some time to work through my feelings... so far, I'm just a mess. Does time really heal all wounds? I think I'm about to find out.

In other news: I am making progress left and right on little house projects, even though I'm working on a shoestring budget. That dang pool went crazy over budget and it's cramping my style. It was worth every single penny, even if I have to wear the same clothes for the next 30 years.

Also, I'm working on a super secret project that is very fabulous and I will unveil in mid-June, not even Mr. Man knows about it. I can't wait to see it all come together.

In the meantime, I had some gift cards that were burning a hole in my pocket and my shoe guy at Nordstroms had been leaving incessant voicemails, "You don't write, you don't call, you don't shop anymore... and I have the perfect shoe for you. Call me! Smooches!"

So, I indulged and called him back. Turns out he had a few shoes for me, because he knows me, loves me, and only wants the best (shoes) for me. I hate the dowdy mama image, but like to have comfy shoes for outings with the kids. He knows the summers entail endless trips to the zoo, museums, and kid friendly adventures. Enter Sparkly Toms, which I love!

Then I got these shoes, which are unbelievable. They are part of this whole minimalist shoe movement, and so light. They are perfect for chasing after Rupert in the hills, and I ran 300 miles (uphill both ways of course, in snow, sleet AND hail) in these babies with no problem. Ooo they are on sale. I wonder if I need some in tan.

You know when you discover something that just makes you say, "Why didn't I think of this sooner?"

I got one of these gel insulated reusable cups, and it is genius. It keeps my water cold, my ice cubes don't melt, and I love it. It keeps my Beloved (aka Coke Vanilla Zero) chilled all day. I swear I love Coke Zero too much, and considering what a natural junkie I am, I hate that I love it. I guess this is what makes me so complicated... I'm full of irony.

Perfect Nights

2011-05-17T22:59:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday night, I was playing four square with Mr. Boy in the yard. The deer were around munching on the snacks I'd left out for them. The fog had rolled in and the temperature was dropping into the 50's.

Suddenly, the pool lights flipped on, and Mr. Man runs out to dive into the pool. Mr. Boy & I shrieked with joy and ran to put on our swimsuits. The pool was 80 degrees thanks to our solar heating system and the sun. We swam and swam while the deer watched with curiosity.

I floated on my back and looked up at the stars and the moon. I was struck at that moment with overwhelming gratitude. Two years ago our plans to move to Seattle fell through, and I remember thinking, who knew where our family would end up. I couldn't see a bright future, due to the constant chatter about the down economy. I love this house and I love my family. The Chalet turned out way better than we ever dreamed, and Mr. Man is home in time for dinner. I could not have gotten through this year without Mr.Man, he has been my rock. As our family splashed, while the deer watched on, I paused to give thanks for the many memories that lay ahead.

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-09T11:45:00.000-07:00

I often tease my children that Mother's Day is the "Most Glorious Day of the Year!" and usually sing it Oprah Style. I woke up to find the kids had been fed and made me breakfast! A banana, orange, apple, and my beloved Vanilla Coke Zero. These kids know me well. I thought it was genius and loved it. Mr. Man made a Cajun Feast for lunch just like the kind he used to make when we were dating. Mr. Man lured me into Matrimony with his cooking skills that disappeared after we exchanged vows. It's okay, I think downplayed just how quirky my personality was, so let's just call it even.

I am grateful to share Mother's Day with this lovely Doe, we have named Jane. Get it... Jane Doe! Jane has been sticking around our house with her gorgeous new baby. that we have named Juan! She won't let me get close enough to photograph the baby, but when she is snacking on her own, she doesn't seem to mind being close.

Royal Wedding Fever

2011-05-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

Amore is in the air! Ever since Prince William announced his engagement, I knew I wanted to have a Royal Wedding Party. I got up early, and watched a few tidbits, but waited until late afternoon to watch the wedding with my friends. AK wore a dress that came from the UK and a crown, and I donned my latest "Fascinator Hat"

We had Party Favors...

And British food... although hummus doesn't count as British, but they eat it over there.. I'm sure of it.

I took zero pictures of the party... I was having too much fun with our small crowd. We had a "Yankee Room" showing cartoons for those friends who didn't care to watch. I was shocked that AK and her friends mostly wanted to watch cartoons and eat the Union Jack inspired cupcakes my friend brought. We didn't even make any of the princess crafts I had planned! So, the moms and I were left to swoon by ourselves over the gorgeous dress, the wedding fashions, and the pomp & circumstance. I loved every minute of it.

Of course, it wouldn't be a special occasion if we didn't document it with our beloved Juans.

My Mother's Daughter

2011-04-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

It's been 2 1/2 months since my mom passed away, and it's still hard. I dream about her most nights, sometimes they are lovely dreams of us on the beach, watching the sunset, and she says, "Wendy, you will be okay." Sometimes, they are terrible nightmares... we buried her alive on accident, I have cancer and she takes care of me, she drowns and I can't save her, she dies again... the exact same way. It's awful and I wake up in a panic. How long will I have these nightmares?

My dad is grieving, and while it's a relief to see my soldier father grieve instead of bottling it up, it is so hard. I can't fix this, I can't help him, I can't take the pain away. He has to go through his own process, just like I have to grieve. This whole experience from the time of diagnosis until now has been one excercise of learning that you just have no control, no power... and I hate it. Do you ever really stop grieving?

I'm 34, my dad is 77, I have no idea how to help him, and I feel like this is the injustice that cancer imposed on me. I feel way too young to be dealing with serious life issues like this. My mom was ten years younger than my dad, she was supposed to outlive him, she even joked about how she would buy a Mercedes right after the funeral. (My father dislikes European Cars.) Now here I am, trying to figure out how to help my father see the value of what his future holds. I know my future involves caring for my dad, being his shoulder to lean on, it's what my mom would want, and it's what I want. My mom may be gone, but I'm still my mother's daughter.

Life is Good.

2011-04-26T06:18:00.000-07:00

That Baby Roller Hand.... leads a pretty charmed life.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T22:50:00.000-07:00

I had grand plans for Easter. With the last few details being finished on the outside of the Chalet in March, and the late Easter date, I turned to Mr. Man and declared, "Nous permettre d'avoir une Chasse d'Oeuf de Pâques." Which roughly translates to, let's have a big Easter Egg Hunt.

Oh! *sigh* When will I ever learn that when it comes to construction, it rarely goes according to plan. The grass got delayed and the grass would be too tender for 1,000 kids to trample on. Plus the shrubbery has a May delivery date, so there would be no real hiding places for the eggs. It would just be a vast green lawn sprinkled with eggs, so we decided to postpone the egg hunt to another year.

This year I decided to go with what was on hand for our Easter outfits. Mr. Boy is sporting his "2short2cool" tie, and somehow I managed to talk him into wearing the hat that has rested in his closet for 2 years.

I want to frame this picture to remind me on those ridiculously tough days where I feel like I'm a mothering failure. It will remind me that my kids are happy and that we laugh each and every day. It might take years of therapy to undo the damage I do to them, because being a parent is hard. I have no idea what I'm doing half the time. There is no instruction manual and every child is different.

But in the end, my kids and my family are great. They love me and I love them. I think moms are their own worst critic, and this week was tough as I got back into the swing of doing the mom thing.

AK looked lovely in her smocked dress and I made her an Easter Bonnet. I think there is nothing sweeter than a smocked dress and a Bonnet. She's worn this dress for the last three Easters. I think I finally got my money's worth out of it. If I only I could bottle up this precious little girl-i-ness and give it back to her when she is a teen. I couldn't help but smile as I watched her little bonnet bob up and down as she skipped into church.

Happy Easter!

The Homestretch

2011-04-18T06:01:00.000-07:00

Every year as April 15th approaches, I start to fantasize about all the things I'm going to do in my spare time. This year, all I can think about is lounging in the pool and finishing up home projects. Lucky for us, we have 3 extra days of tax season this year!

And today, as I push through the final tax returns, I have these lovely flowers to keep me company on my desk compliments of a thoughtful client. If you are looking for me later this week, I have a feeling I'll be in one of three places... The Paint Department of Lowes, floating on a raft with a fruity drink in my backyard, or up hiking the hills trying to hug Rupert. Don't forget to file those taxes friends!

Good Fortune

2011-04-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

Mr. Man never felt "settled" into the Maison (our previous house). We would get into tense discussions, because I wanted to buy furniture, hire Juans to make built ins, and he would just kind of try and put me off. When we did decide to buy furniture, I was lightening quick to pick it out, lest he would change his mind. Also, I was so ecstatic over buying furniture that I wouldn't sleep until I had purchased it.

One time I was over at a friends and she was saying, "My husband is after me to pick out the living room furniture, but I just can't seem to get around to picking it out. It's been 6 months!" I think I stood there speechless for a good five minutes, that was THE most ridiculous thing I had ever heard. How could you not just drop everything and shop!?!?

Now fast forward several years, I've matured and re prioritized a bit. I'd rather spend my time playing with Rupert than shopping the furniture stores. (Isn't he adorable?) I really have turned into a home body, which you would think would make me want to get my home in order.

Currently when you come over, you step into my bland, boring living room. I will usually try and usher you out to another room, because I'd rather you didn't fall asleep while visiting, succumbing to the sudden bout of narcolepsy my living room infects you with. Don't even look at my fireplace, it will put you into a coma.

Back in November, Mr. Man insisted on buying that handsome brown couch. Then he said, "Buy some chairs!" I knew I wanted something formal, tufted, and armless. I couldn't find what I was looking for, so I just kind of let it go. Mr. Man kept bugging me, "Buy some chairs!" It became awkward with guests, all sitting there on the couch staring straight ahead, nodding off while trying to converse

Then on Saturday I drove by my neighbors house just in time to see them walking this beautiful gold antique chair out of the house towards the moving van. I thought, "That's exactly the type of chair I want, I should scour antique and thrift stores!"

When I drove back home, I noticed that beautiful gold antique chair that I had lusted after, sitting on the curb with a "FREE!" sign, next to a dreadful looking barbecue. I pulled over, jumped out and popped it in my car, then I decided I should say goodbye to my neighbor. She, like most of the neighbors, have lived here for 30 plus years. I gave her a hug, wished her well as she moves into a retirement village. I mentioned I snatched up that gold chair and was thrilled to have it. She said, "Oh, then here let me give you the other one, I was going to have the movers set it out on the curb."

I nearly fell over, huzzah!! She told me all about how she had bought them at an antique store when she first bought her house in 1960 for $100. Her children would make up stories about who had owned the chairs prior to them. They would pretend they belonged to Presidents, Royalty, or Pirates. My sweet neighbor also told me that Dorothy* and her husband would come over and sit in these very chairs and have cocktails most Sunday evenings. It only seemed appropriate that these chairs make their way up to the Chalet. They would benefit from some new upholstery, but overall they are in fantastic shape.

Now, I'm getting excited for the prospect of a decorating this room. I have a mantle for the fireplace, and will be scouring the internet for an area rug, that isn't brown. These chairs will get reupholstered into something a little more bold over the summer if I can work up the courage. Anyone have thoughts on my living room? Wall Color? Chair colors?

Today, I'm toasting my neighbor as she embarks on a new chapter of her life and I'm grateful she is passing on a little bit of history to our family. After spending some time with my new to me furniture, I'm pretty sure the chairs lived in a summer home in Southern France in a previous life. Oui?

*The Chalet was built in 1953 by Dorothy and her husband. She was expecting her first child, and they raised their two boys here. When they moved in, they bought all new furniture, mid century modern, and they left much of it here behind. They loved this house, and were very happy here; you can tell this house had a very happy vibe. They loved the deer and spent their time painting with watercolors on the patio. Dorothy's husband died ten years ago, and Dorothy passed away in 2010. The neighbors still refer to this as, "Dorothy's house".

When we were adding on, I would often yell out to the heavens, "Dorothy, I'm so sorry, but trust me, you'll love the end result" as I picked up a sledgehammer to demolish a wall. I love that there has only been one owner, and hope to live in this house a very long time. Dorothy's ghost is welcome here, to sit on my new chairs and enjoy a ghostly cocktail. Cheers!

Shhh... Can you keep a secret?

2011-04-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

Can you keep a secret? I totally ran away this weekend.

And it was awesome. It has been so stressful the last few ~~weeks, months,~~ year or two. We've been fixing up the Maison, moving, remodeling the Chalet (which has been fun but stressful at times), and then my mom became ill. I love Mr. Man, but he has a tough time relaxing. Things need to be "done" before he can chill. In November as the pool was being worked on, he said, "Phew, we are getting close, once the outside of the house is done, THEN I can relax." We both know, that as soon as the outside is done, then he will move on to something else to fret about. Relaxation is something just out of his reach. For me, I can never truly relax at home. In the back of my head there is always something that needs to be tackled.

In the past few weeks, things have been building. I miss my mom, I keep thinking, I just want 5 more minutes with her. Just one more conversation. I'm not sure what I would say, I'm glad I said everything I wanted to but still, just five more minutes. I'm worried about my sweet dad, who is openly grieving for the loss of his wife. Add in Tax Season, which I enjoy, but it is stressful, and I missed the first month of it, so I feel like I'm playing catch up. Pile on a few other issues, such as Sandy the ancient dog's dementia, and I just am barely holding it together. Two weeks ago, I exploded and it wasn't pretty. Mr. Man noticed our new towels shed like a dog, and that trivial item was the straw that broke the camels back. I felt like it was one more problem I just couldn't solve. We have bought 3 different brands of black towels for our bathroom, and ALL of them have shed black fuzz. I've tried countless tips and tricks and nothing has worked.. The last batch came from Neiman Marcus and cost a small fortune, but... towels from Neimans won't shed? Right? Wrong. It's totally irrational that shedding towels is what caused me to just break down, cry, and scream, "I just can't hold it together anymore. This is so hard. Nothing is going smoothly. I just want a good towel, that's the only thing I need in my life right now." Those weren't my precise words, there may have been a swear word and lots of fragmented sentences about towels in between sobs. We all know, I wasn't really crying about the towels.

Enter in our dear friends, who were inspired to give us a call and say, "Hey we are going to Palm Desert in a few weeks with the kids, come with us!" My first thought was, "Uh, in April? Nope, taxes first." Then, Mr. Man told me, "Wendy, this sounds like a golden opportunity for the whole family. Let's try and make this work, for the kids, for us, and for the sake of your mental health." Turns out financials can be reviewed poolside.

Even better, last week as I waded through my files stacked on my desk, I realized I was almost out of work. I'm waiting on phone calls and additional information on everything that is outstanding. The stars were lining up, I'm not kidding when I say this trip was inspired.

The place we stayed was GORGEOUS. I kept wondering if we should have made the Chalet more like a Hacienda.

If only we had room for a BLUE Tennis Court. *swoon*

Mr. Boy swam the entire time and loved playing with his friend. These are his new Relaxipant Inspired Swim Trunks.

AK quickly adapted to Cabana Life, and spent most of her time lounging in and out of the pool with her friend.

SHUT UP! *shove* Is that Mr. Man? Is he really just lounging by the pool relaxing? I have not seen Mr. Relaxed Man in years. It was so nice to see him and enjoy his company for the weekend.

After a day lounging around, I started to feel my shoulders relax. My smile returned and I have not felt this relaxed in at least a year. I laughed a lot this weekend, loved on my kids, and swapped stories with friends.

I highly recommend running away with your friends to everyone.

An assortment...

2011-03-28T22:39:00.000-07:00

Tax season is here, which means that I am pushed to my limit for time. Then to complicate matters, of course I over scheduled everyone for the spring. Mr. Boy has Baseball...

which he is fantastic at. This was taken just after he scored his first run.

Even Mr. Man is joining in the fun down on the field helping out with some sideline coaching.

It's not all roses at our house , though. I mean check out AK, she is preparing for a radiation cloud... or actually she is just showing off her recent injury. You can't see it? See how her right index finger is kind of poking straight down... on that finger is... *are you sitting down?* a hangnail! AK has a flair for the dramatics, which works out well since we live in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Other than AK's debilitating hangnail, she has exciting stuff going on. After dinkering around with some kiddie dance classes for the last few years, AK is in a ballet class for "super serious mega star ballerina's." She loves it and leaps around the house in a leotard 7 days a week.

Is it April 15th yet? I'm ready to kick back for some R&R. Bora Bora anyone? Or perhaps just a week hanging with Rupert out by the pool? Whose with me?