Martino Moments

Daddy, Daughter Date

2012-02-06T13:47:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago Ben took Grace and Abigail on a date to see "Beauty and the Beast" replaying in the theater. The girls got all dressed up (lipstick included), brought their purses, and were in heaven. Ben treated them to popcorn and said his lap had one, if not both the girls on it the whole movie.

8 Months

2012-01-25T19:50:00.001-08:00

I'm such a big girl

I say "Dada"

I say "Hi" and wave

I take big girl baths

I eat lots of table food

I have everyone wrapped around my finger

5 Years Old

2012-01-20T20:33:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my Gracie Girl is 5 years old. We had a "Cupcake Birthday Party" in the backyard. The weather was perfect (70 degrees) and the birthday girl was on top of the world.

This past year she has definitely grown up and I see a small change in her that shows me she is slowly turning into a "a little lady". She can make me so frustrated, but oh how I love her. To sum her up..."She's just Gracie Girl".

Grace loves to create.

Anything that has to do with coloring, art projects, and crafts have her name written all over it.

I love the free spirit that comes out of her when she is crafting.

I'm continually grateful that she is my oldest.
She has a mothering instinct and treats her little sisters so well.
It's when she's playing with Abigail or Olivia that I see her the most
giving, caring,
selfless, and comforting.

She wants to do right.
She makes sure things are the right way.
Sometimes it is frustrating
like when she has to have her bedding folded down at the right spot.
But most times its sweet to see her making good choices like
always remembering to say her prayers and read scriptures.

Sweet Gracie Girl
You've always been my one
who has stuck by my side.
You're my baby who has had to be patient with me
while I'm learning this process of being a Mommy.
Every new challenge we take together.
And many times I feel you are teaching
me more than I am
teaching you.
I love to carry you, tickle your arm at night,
do your hair, bathe you, kiss you,
sing to you, and drive you places.
I know one day I won't be doing
these things for you any more.
You are growing so fast and I want to
cherish all these moments
with you,
before they become sparingly.
Thanks for being patient with me
and loving me with all my flaws.
I love hearing you say you want to be
a Mommy like me when you
grow up.
I hope
I can live up to
all you hope me to be
for you!
Happy 5th Birthday Gracie Girl. I Love You!!!

Christmas Day

2012-01-20T19:08:00.000-08:00

In the 6 years we have been married we have yet to have a Christmas morning at our own home until this year. We LOVED it! It was so fun waking up in our own beds and going downstairs to see what Santa brought. The girls are at such a fun age and it makes me realize there are only a handful of years left that Christmas will be "magical when you believe".

After opening presents, breakfast, and church we headed up the Grandmas house for a nice brunch and more gift exchanging.

(my sister Nora made me this adorable Playroom Rules sign...I love it!!! Its so cute in the playroom!)
Ben headed to work around 4 and the rest of us went to Auntie Sherry's for a lovely Christmas dinner.

Christmas Eve

2012-01-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve we spent the morning hanging out and enjoying the day with Ben. During the month of December his only day off was on Saturday. We went to an early Christmas Eve dinner at the Merkley's house at 1pm. The weather was beautiful. The kids played outside, we had soup and salad, did a musical program where Ben and I played a duet on the piano, read the story of the first Christmas in the scriptures, read "Twas the Night Before Christmas", exchanged presents, and opened jammies.

That evening we came home wrote a letter to Santa, left him a plate of cookies and glass of milk, and went to bed anxiously waiting for him to come that night...

Christmas at Grandmas

2012-01-03T19:39:00.000-08:00

We all met up at Grandma's the Wednesday before Christmas. It was so nice to all be together and the weather was beautiful in the mid 70's. Activities included...
Decorating Grandma's Christmas tree

A Bounce House Day. The kids earned $90 over Labor Day selling lemonade and avocados and decided this was the best way to spend the money. We will definitely make the bounce house a yearly tradition and would recommend it to all. It's affordable, all day entertainment, right in your own backyard, fun for all ages, and mess free.
Trip to Bass Pro Shop. Poor Abigail was sick the whole night before, but was a trooper and came with us any way.

Tree Cutting. Grandma will now have a supply of firewood for the next 50 years.

Crafts

Cookie Decorating

and caroling

7 Months

2011-12-28T08:39:00.001-08:00

I absolutely LOVE having Olivia as my baby! I could hold her, make her laugh, rock her, sing to her, watch her sleep, listen to her coo, soak up every smile, show her off, and keep her little FOREVER!!!! Because she is growing so fast, I'm trying to cherish every part of this sweet baby. Every smile (which is continuous all day long) melts my heart. 0-6 months is such a special time having a newborn around, but 6-12 months is one of my favorites. Their personalities really come out and they are learning to do so many new things. Olivia can now sit on her own, eats all kinds of baby food, rolls around, and will interact with anyone who gives her attention. I'm constantly reminded how happy and pleasant she is. She goes with the flow and is patient with her older sisters. Olivia we sure love you!!!

Traditions

2011-12-14T19:44:00.000-08:00

It's been so fun being back and so close to family and once again participating in all the family traditions. I've loved introducing my girls to these traditions that I remember doing as a little girl.
The Card Party
The Toffoli's host a wonderful "card party" that has taken place for 21 years. We all sit around making Christmas cards to send out to family and friends. There are plenty of stickers, markers, stamps, paper, glue, glitter, you name it, it's there. Not to mention there is always amazing food to accompany. We then all walk together to the blue mail box singing Christmas songs along the way. Once we get back we sip cider while the kids do a small program. This year included the violin, piano, "guitar", singing, and dancing. It was such a fun night that the girls LOVED!!!!

Mimi's Ornament Dinner
Every year since I was little Mimi has always given me an ornament in my stocking at her house. She has a stocking hanging for every one of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren (spouse included). It's been fun to pull out our ornaments when decorating the tree and remember all the ornaments she has given me throughout the years. Not only does she give us an ornament in our stockings but she also lets us choose one of her very own ornaments off of her Christmas tree. Thanks to Mimi, when I got married I already had enough ornaments to fill up our Christmas tree. The girls loved picking just the right one off her tree and were happy to come home and hang it on our tree.

Sitting on Santa's Lap
Of course this is a tradition that everyone does. It's funny to see the different looking Santa's and to see the girls reactions to him each year. This year Gracie and Olivia loved it, but Abigail was never quite too sure what to think.

Look What I Did!

2011-12-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

Click on the link...
http://kochomo.blogspot.com
(I didn't have any of the pictures and my sister did such a good post that I'm using hers)

Deck the Halls

2011-12-06T18:59:00.001-08:00

It was fun to find new spots for all of our Christmas decorations this year!

The "Bass Pro Shop" is also decorated as a winter wonderland with things for the kids to do. The best part is it's all free.

We love Christmas time!

6 Months

2011-11-28T09:15:00.001-08:00

Oh my little Baby Doll. Stop growing up so fast! Those round little checks I could just kiss all day. At 4 months you were only in the 10th percentile. You've shot up to the 40th percentile in just 2 months. 15 lbs 4 oz. (40th percentile), 24 3/4 inch and (20th percentile). Your 3-6 month clothes are getting too tight and have to wear 6-9 or 6-12 month. Your 2 little bottom teeth poking in make you look so big. You're loving eating baby food and have tried green beans, peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, squash and bananas. Did you know you have the cutest little indent/hole in your ear that looks like a freckle and a little birth mark on your bum? Both of these you had at birth and they have not changed in the past 6 months. You light up every room with your smile and make our home all the more happy! We love you Olivia!!!

Happy Turkey Day

2011-11-28T07:29:00.000-08:00

We are so thankful for all the blessings we've been given. How grateful we are to have our church, 3 healthy girls, a home, and be surrounded by the love of friends and family. Thanksgiving dinner at Auntie Pam's house was delicious and so beautiful. The adults had a pleasant time chatting and the kids had just as much fun being together.

Friday we all went to Travel Town in LA. We brought breakfast burritos and had a picnic breakfast. The kids loved exploring all the trains and riding the mini train around the park.

Disneyland

2011-11-12T20:04:00.000-08:00

We have been wanting to go to Disneyland ever since we moved here and finally found the perfect time to go. The weather was pleasant, the lines weren't too long, the girls were in heaven, and we all had a blast. My mom was sweet enough to watch Olivia, which made it much easier and more enjoyable not having an infant.
I love how magical everything is there. The girls thought all the Princesses and characters were real.

Abigail was just shy of 35 inches which meant she got to ride 2 of the "big kid rides" (Matterhorn and the toon town roller coaster). She LOVED them. We had to do a pony tail on top in order to sneak by.

Gracie is just barley 40 inches which meant she was able to ride every single ride but one. That girl was made for wild rides. She had her hands up and was squealing during them all. She loved Space Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and Splash Mountain. Now that our kids are getting older, and taller, and braver, it makes Disneyland a whole new experience.

It was fun meeting up with the Grahams and riding some rides with them. It was a nice switch up in our day having some new faces to enjoy the evening with.

We were at the park from 9:30AM to 9:30PM and soaked in every single second. Our kids NEVER fall asleep unless in their beds (no matter what time it is or what they've done that day). I guess we finally found something else that puts them to sleep...a fun filled day at Disneyland!

Heather Annette Photography

2011-11-03T10:01:00.000-07:00

My best friend Heather is a very talented photographer!!! When she came to California a few weeks ago she took some family pictures for us and I am so happy with the way they turned out. Check out her amazing work at http://heatherannette.com
She mostly does sessions in Utah, but occasionally is in Texas and California if you ever want to book her. Thanks Heather!!!

Happy Halloween

2011-11-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

The Halloween Fun was plentiful...

We went to the ward Halloween party at church...

The free neighborhood fair...

Carved pumpkins...

Trick or Treated in our new neighborhood...

And made in two steps in the door before digging in...

5 Months

2011-10-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Olivia all of a sudden looks so BIG to me! This past month she has grown up so much. She moved up to size 2 diapers and is out of all her 0-3 month clothes. I'm sad that she is now only bottle fed. We just started her on rice cereal a few days ago and she has done well with it so far. It's crazy to me that she is still eating every 2 hours during the day, and she is up more now in the night than she ever was as a newborn. I put her down at 7 and she still wakes up once, sometimes twice to eat. She is my worse sleeper so far, but the smiles I get makes it all worth it. She loves her hands and is my most smiley baby which we all love. She is such a delightful, easy going baby. Oh Livy-Lou, we sure Love You!!!!

Ferguson's

2011-10-24T13:11:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend with Heather and Nick. They came into town for Nicks interview for medical school at Pomona. It was fun spending time with them as well as having Ben around. Friday, Heather took our family pictures (she's an amazing photographer!), and we went to the Redlands street fair. Saturday we went to the Santa Monica pier where we had a picnic lunch, rode some rides (Grace went on the yellow roller-coaster), and walked around. We then headed over to the LA Children's Museum. I got a little glimpse of what weekends could be like if the Ferguson's moved here...and I REALLY like it!

Redlands Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-17T16:08:00.001-07:00

We had a fun, fall weekend. Saturday afternoon we checked out the Redlands Pumpkin Patch which was adorable. The girls did the petting zoo, bounce house, rode the ponies, and picked out a small pumpkin to paint at home.

That evening we went to the East Highlands Ranch outdoor movie night at the park to see "How to Train a Dragon". It was a free event for everyone who was a part of the HOA. We had hot dogs and hamburgers, popcorn, and face painting. We sure love FALL!!!!

4 Months

2011-09-25T08:38:00.000-07:00

-12 lbs 3 oz. and 22 3/4 in. (10th percentile)
-loves to sleep swaddled
-favorite accessory is a bib
-still in size 1 diaper
-in between size 0-3months and 3-6 month clothes
-still bathes in the sink

-knows how to roll from her back to her tummy and tummy to back but have only actually caught her in a action a few times
-loves her hands
-nurses half the time and bottle half the time
-always happy!!!

Happy Birthday Benny Boo

2011-09-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

Happy 28th Birthday yesterday to an amazing husband and daddy!!! It was so nice that work surprised him and let him off extra early (10:30am) so we could spend the whole day together. Thanks so much to Grandma for coming to take care of the girls while we went on a date to Target, Hour foot message, and a nice Italian dinner.

Girls Weekend 2011

2011-09-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

We took our 3rd annual girls weekend trip and headed to Indio. The accommodations were perfect. We were sad Melinda couldn't make it this year, and look forward to her joining next time. The weekend consisted of...
Eating dinner at Panera Bread,

Enjoying our Edible Arrangement all weekend...Thanks Ryan,

Sisterly bonding,

Relaxing,

Making dinner at the condo after seeing "The Help"

Shopping at Target 9 months pregnant and all,

Doing crafts,

Crafts,

And more crafts,

Enjoying having the baby girls with us,

Filling the car full with all of our purchases,

and enjoying one last dinner out at Ruby's Diner.

It was lots of fun...Until next year ladies!!!

Labor Day

2011-09-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

We did our second annual Lemonade stand on Labor Day at Grandmas house. This year the kids also decided to sell grapefruit, avocados, and oranges. It was pretty hot and humid, but that didn't stop the selling. The Dads got into it the most. After 2 hours of hard work the kids made about $70 which will go towards a fun activity this Christmas.

After selling lemonade we went down to the Menlove's to swim, play minute-to-win-it games, and BBQ.

Kochs Sleepover

2011-09-08T08:52:00.001-07:00

Thanks for having a sleepover with us June and Charlie. We sure had lots of fun!!!

3 Months

2011-08-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

3 months already!!!! We absolutely love everything about our sweet Olivia. She is a content easy baby. I pulled out her 3-6 month close all of which are still pretty big. She has acquired a few nicknames: Livia, Livs, Livy, and Livers(my least favorite, but sometimes it just comes out). I'll be interested to see which of these sticks. Grace and Abigail are really good at helping me take care of her and are actually really helpful. She still eats every 2 hours during the day and wakes once at night to eat. Life with 3 girls is feeling comfortable and just the way it should be...We are all in love with our littlest girl!!!

Menlove Sleepover

2011-08-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time with the Menlove kids! I was a little worried that 3 more kids would be 3 times the work (and it was a times) but for the majority of the time they entertained themselves, playing games like "spy" and just running around the house together. Nothing makes a Mom/Auntie more happy then watching all the kids playing so well!

Fishing at the Pond

2011-08-10T14:21:00.001-07:00

The evening consisted of fishing, pizza, fishing, bubbles, fishing, "hide and go seek", fishing, dessert, fishing, a walk, and more fishing.
Maybe next time we'll actually catch a fish...

"School Day, School Day"

2011-08-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

"Dear Old Golden Rule Day"

Today was Gracie's first day of preschool at "Apple Tree". She'll be going Monday, Wednesday, Friday, from 9:30-12:30. Both mother and daughter have been anticipating this day to come. The one person to cry when we dropped Grace off was Abby. Poor girl wanted so badly to go to preschool and asked when we were picking up Gracie all morning. One more year Abigail...although I don't think I'll ever be ready for her to go.

Olivia's Blessing

2011-08-08T14:40:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, July 31st Olivia was blessed at church. Ben gave a beautiful blessing and we so enjoyed having family here. Everyone came back to our house afterwards for a little luncheon. It was fun having Nana and Pop come into town for a couple of days. The boys got a lot of work done cleaning out the garage, doing yard work, and setting up the swing set. Although it was raining we even went up to Big Bear and did the Alpine Slides.

2 Months

2011-07-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

What a busy month it has been. Aside from moving into our new house, Olivia is growing so fast. At first I thought she looked a lot like Gracie, but now I think she has her own look.

She's petite like my other girls were and is starting to fit into her 0-3 month clothes and wear a size 1 diaper. At her 2 month apt. she weighs 9 lbs. 8 oz. and is 21 1/2 inches long. She began smiling shortly after she was one month old and lights up a room when she does.

She still eats every 2 hours during the day. Her night time sleeping is awesome. Her last feeding is anywhere from 8-10pm then wakes to eat around 5 and up for the morning around 8. Olivia's personality is somewhere between Gracie's and Abby's as a baby. She's not as easy going as Abigail was, but not as high maintenance as Grace. She pretty much goes with the flow and is happy with any attention she can get. We love Olivia so much and the love she brings to our family.

How to Enjoy the 4th of July....

2011-07-10T20:23:00.000-07:00

Get the family together at Huntington Beach and gather bikes and trailers for everyone to ride down to the parade on Main Street...

Make sure you have a separate trailer for 3 week old Olivia...

Line up all the kids on the curb with Grandma to watch the parade...

Feast on all the delicious food...

Ride bikes again straight from the parade down to the beach...

Have the Dads play with the kids in the ocean, while the Moms relax on the sand...

Search for sand crabs...

Bury the kids...

Jump over waves...

Ride bikes back to Nora's after the fire works after a fun filled day!!!

Grandma's House

2011-07-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

We have been having way to much fun at Grandma's house this past month! We've loved being back in California with family!!!

One Month

2011-06-26T15:47:00.000-07:00

Olivia was one month old yesterday and even though time has flown by it feels like she has been a part of our family forever. She totally just fits right in. She is my only baby that has wanted to nurse every 2 hours around the clock, but every once in a while I luck out at night and she'll stretch 4 hours. Just before she was 3 weeks we realized that she is a huge spitter...just like both her sisters. Olivia is very easy tempered and goes with the flow. We love Olivia and all the happiness she brings to our family.

One Week

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-20T10:27:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful father we have in our family. Ben impresses me as a Daddy everyday. He is the favorite guy to all his little ladies. We love you.

I'm in LOVE

2011-05-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

Olivia is just as Perfect as she looks!!!

Olivia's Birth

2011-05-29T14:43:00.000-07:00

I was scheduled to be at the hospital at 6am, Wednesday, May 25th for my induction. After waking up that morning at 2am I was anxious to get there. Everything went so easy. I got right in and was at a 4 (and 50% effaced).

They started pitocin at about 8am and shortly after I got my epidural. The doctor checked me again at 10am and I was now at 5cm. He said he would come back at noon during his lunch break and see where I was at.

In the mean time my epidural was only working on one side. After some help from the anesthesiologist, I was soon completely numb on both sides. During this time my monitors on my belly had shifted and so it was showing that I wasn't having contractions. The nurse finally came to reposition them at 11:30 where we found I was in full blown labor.

The doctor showed up at 12:15, checked me, and said I was at a 10 and position 3...the head was right there. He quickly got gowned up and after 3 pushes Olivia was born at 12:34pm

It was soooo fast, that I felt like I barley had any time to take it in. Everything went so well and calm. She was perfect and I felt instant love for her.

Nana came the night before to help take care of the girls. She dropped them off at a friends house right before the delivery and just missed Olivia's birth. We are so thankful for her willingness to come help and be here to take care of us.

Later that afternoon the girls came to meet their new sister.

The both brought her a present that they picked out all by themselves. I thought it was hilarious that Abby wanted to give Olivia a "taggie" exactly the same as hers.

We were discharged from the hospital 24hrs after the birth.
The rest of the afternoon was spent together in our house. It was a bit crazy with three kids and I know I have a lot to get used to, but it felt so good all being together.

The next morning (Friday) Nana took Gracie and Abby with her to Dallas to her house so that Ben and I could finish getting the house all packed up. It was so helpful being able to do this with the girls gone and being able to enjoy Olivia to ourselves for a couple of days.

The girls were really cute saying goodbye to our house and walked through all the rooms saying goodbye.

Tomorrow we load up the truck and head to Dallas to get the girls. I will fly with them (with the help of Nana) while Ben drives the car to California. What a journey these past few days have been, but it has been a wonderful journey...

She's Here...

2011-05-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

Introducing...

Olivia James Martino

May 25, 2011

12:34 pm

Born 6 lbs. 14 oz.

17.5 inches

More to come...

Pregnant, but not for long

2011-05-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

9 months pregnant...

Large...

and in charge

I can't believe that soon I will be a Mommy of 3 girls. I'm getting induced Wednesday the 25th (I'll be 39 weeks). This pregnancy has gone by mostly fast. The last month is always the longest it seems. We are so excited and anxious for this little girl to join our family. It's been fun talking about it with Gracie and Abby and how they plan on helping me take care of her. I'm so excited, but nervous and sad at the same time. Ben and I were just saying how easy and perfect life is right now. We feel like we have most things down with the girls, they are at an easy age, and get along so well. I know that when this new baby comes into the mix things will be tossed all around for a while, but life will be all the more perfect with her in it. I can't wait to have a newborn again and to bring this new little gift home to our girls.

Benjamin Martino, MD

2011-05-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

It's official!!!! We have a doctor in our house and couldn't be more proud of him. What an adventure these past four years have been. Ben's graduation took place Saturday afternoon at Texas A&M in College Stattion with a banquet held Friday night. He was recognized for his acceptance into the AOA and graduated with honors. His parents, sisters (Kim and Jason, Karina, and Lauren), as well as Grandma were able to make it to support us in this big accomplishment. It was such an amazing feeling watching him get hooded (a sash they put on to show he is an MD) and be a part of this journey. Medical school was definitely hard but we were able to get through it and be blessed by the love and support from family and friends.

Abby was scared of Ben in his graduation attire and wouldn't go to him until he was changed out of it.

Congratulations DR. MARTINO! We are so proud of you! You did it !!!

Grandma

2011-05-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

We loved having you for a few days! We can't wait to move in a couple of weeks and be able to see you a lot more.

Soccer Awards

2011-05-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

Grace and Ben had a wonderful first season of soccer. I think they both learned a lot. The kids all got trophy's at their last game Saturday. We had a little award ceremony at the park with donuts. Gracie got the "Best Effort" award and was very proud of her trophy. It was so fun watching Grace and Ben in action.

6 Years

2011-04-30T10:48:00.003-07:00

Happy 6th Anniversary to the most amazing husBEN. We had a wonderful evening out together last night going to dinner and walking around Austin. We were reminiscing about how much has happened these past 6 years and predicted what the next 6 years will bring. I love Ben so much and am grateful for all he is and helps me to become. I love calling him my best friend. I love you Benny-Boo!!!

(I couldn't bare putting a pregnant picture up so this is of us last year on our cruise celebrating our anniversary)

Easter

2011-04-25T06:21:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Easter all week long (or should I say all month long). Back at the end of March Nana and Pop were in town for conference. There was the big Martino Egg Hunt the weekend that Ben and I went to California to look for a house. Grace and Abigail got to enjoy in the fun with cousins while we were away.

We had an egg hunt with playgroup, Gracie had her preschool egg hunt, egg hunt for church, and Scott & White Hospital Egg Hunt. Needless to say the girls had tons of fun and got tons of eggs.

Easter Morning the girls found the dyed eggs we had colored the night before throughout the house. The Easter bunny hid their baskets and left clues leading them to it. Gracie thought this was so fun to go on a "basket hunt". After finding their baskets in the bath tub, we had a wonderful morning before heading off to church.

The week leading up to Easter we talked every night about the events leading up to Jesus Resurrection. I'm happy to say that on Easter morning when we asked Gracie what the real meaning of Easter was she told us, "Not bunny's and candy, but how Jesus died for us and Lives again". I'm so grateful for this time of year and the knowledge that we have that He Lives and we can return to live with him one day!

Bluebonnets

2011-04-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

We sure are going to miss the bluebonnets every spring!

Soccer

2011-04-02T19:00:00.000-07:00

Gracie is playing her first sport ever...soccer. Everything about it is perfect...cheap ($35), age group is 3-4 year olds, 6 players to a team, only for the month of April, one practice a week, and games every Saturday. The best part of all is her coach...Daddy. Ben's dream has come true. He's been talking about coaching our kids in sports since before they were born. It is perfect timing since he's schedule is so light right now. Grace loves having Coach Daddy. The practice and games are pretty funny with lots of chaos, but sure are cute and fun to watch.

Happy 2nd Birthday Abigail

2011-03-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe Abigail is 2. Even though she acts way older than a 2 year old, I can't help but look at her and think of her as my baby. She has been the most pleasant and happy girl these past two years. Of course she does have a big personality and is very independent, but we love everything about her.

Abby at 2 years:

-loves to read books

-talks really well!!!

-knows her ABC's and can count past 10

-loves to sing

-thinks shes one of the "big kids"

-doesn't like milk (expect in cereal)

-potty trained and off the paci

-very independent (gets dressed/undressed by herself)

-loves to say prayers

-roars like a lion throughout the house all day

-follows Gracie around

-not a chocolate lover...but loves Chips!

-only naps 2-3 days a week

-sleeps from 7:30-7:30/8

We celebrated Abby's birthday Saturday (since we're going out of town her real birthday). We started the day with donuts which Abby inhaled 2 of. Then we opened presents. Thanks Nana and Pop for the doll house. It has entertained both girls non-stop for the past few days. That afternoon we had a little party at the park with lunch and cupcakes. It was great day! Happy 2nd Birthday Abigail. We love you soooo much!!!

Match Day

2011-03-18T21:06:00.003-07:00

March 17th was definitely our LUCKY day! It was "Match Day" for Ben to determine which residency program he got into. Here is a little summary of how the process works...

After interviewing at different residency programs, you send in a rank list of those programs you want to go to. Every program also sends in a list of the students they want to take. Then on Match Day the whole class gets together and receives their envelope to where they are placed. You may get your 1st ranked program, or you may get your 10th choice. Lucky for us we got our #1 choice and will be going to Loma Linda for Ben's ENT Residency in June. We are so excited! I'm so proud of Ben and how hard he has worked these past four years.

The morning began with the leprechaun helping us keep our luck with green pancakes, whip cream, and juice.

You have to walk up get your envelope then sit back down and wait to open it.

Everyone pins on the map where they are going.

That night we had a very nice dinner in Austin to celebrate. Congratulations Ben!

Sea World

2011-03-18T20:49:00.001-07:00

Ben had all week off (except Monday) and we took advantage of our Sea World passes and spent Tuesday and Wednesday there. The new Sesame Street area was a big hit.
We saw all the characters...

Rode the rides...

Fed the birds and dolphins...

Went hot tubbing at the hotel (which Gracie said was one of her favorite parts of the trip)

and even went to the water park (since it was 85 degrees).
Even though it was very crowded with it being spring break, we had a great time and the girls were perfect!

Best Friends

2011-03-04T07:24:00.000-08:00

I used to be Gracie's best friend, but have been replaced... These two really are Best Friends and I love watching them play together!

Valentines Recap

2011-02-15T08:16:00.000-08:00

We had a very LOVEly Valentines day.
It began with cinnamon rolls and Valentines

Then we went to a fun party with playgroup with lots of goodies, crafts, and games.

We ended the night with Allison watching the girls (who they have talked about since) while Ben and I were able to go out to dinner at Olive Garden and enjoy some alone time.

Love, Gracie and Abby

2011-02-13T17:35:00.000-08:00

Today before church we got our valentines all ready for tomorrow. Since we didn't get to mail many of them out, Gracie came up with the idea to hold the valentine cards up in a picture to show everyone. Happy Valentines Day...We LOVE you all!!!

Doesn't this make you Smile?

2011-02-08T16:43:00.001-08:00

She's had me smiling all day. Potty Training day one has been a success. Abigail thinks it's the greatest thing in the world. Let's hope it stays that way!

Hot and Cold

2011-02-04T16:41:00.000-08:00

Last weekend the weather was beautiful...75 degrees. We felt like we got a little glimpse of spring and took advantage of it and went to the zoo.

This weekend it snowed! We loved playing in it but were glad it only lasted one day.

Christmas Festivities

2011-01-14T18:48:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas vacaction in Guatemala that lasted 9 amazing days. We loved seeing Nana and Pop and getting a real cultural experience. Two of Bens sisters and their families also came which meant for a full house...but I say, the more the merrier!

We arrived late Wednesday night. The girls did wonderful on the flight (I can't believe it's only 3 hours). The next day we went to an Amusement Park and Zoo.

Thursday we had another fun filled day in Antigua where we (minus the pregos) went zip lining, shopping, had lunch at Posada de Don Rodrigo, and enjoyed walking around the city.

Friday we went to an orphanage and played games, brought them lunch, did a pinata, held them, and wished we could take them home. I was amazed at how well we all interacted with them even though there was a language barrier. The kids broke open a pinata as it is a Guatemalan tradion and we played some games outside. That night we had a light dinner, Santa came for a visit, talent show, and did the nativity play. Gracie was very upset that she was not Mary, but the Inn Keeper. She said she did NOT want to be the Inn Keeper because he was a boy and she's a Gracie Girl. Poor girl had a rough Christmas Eve after that went down. That night the adults did a dance off on Wii which was pretty hilarious. Christmas Eve at Mid-night was one of the most crazy things I've every experienced. It sounded like we were in the middle of war with bombs going off. Outside in the sky from top to bottom, 360 degrees, around were millions of fireworks. People set them off like crazy and good ones too. It was like Disneyland firework times a million...it was very pretty but loud and abnoxious.
Christmas day was low key and relaxing. It's always magical Christmas morning with lots of children who were all on Santas good list (I'm pretty sure Gracie was).

Sunday after church we headed for Irtra (3 hours away) where we stayed for 2 nights in a beautiful resort that had peacocks walking around everywhere, tropical birds, and 3 luxury pools w/slides. They were perfect accomodations for our large group. The next two days we spent at a wonderful water park across the street The kids loved it!

Tuesday we drove another 3 hours to Lake Atitlan. This place is beautiful! We all dressed in the traditonal indian wear and took pictures. The hotel we stayed at had breath taking views. We took a boat across the lake the next day to a small village where we went shopping in the markets, drove in Tuktuk cars, and enjoyed all the diversity.

Wednesday was the 3 hour drive back to Guatemala City. We were sad to pack our bags for the flight the next morning. It was a fun filled trip that we will always treasure! Thanks Nana and Pop!
Here is a little video with more pictures (it was easier to do the pictures this way).

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Happy 4th Birthday

2011-01-07T18:34:00.000-08:00

Our sweet Gracie Girl was loving every minute of her big day today.

This birthday bear sings a really cute song and has been continuously singing all week.

We began the morning with presents (since Ben is out of town and Abby was still asleep I gave in and figured she could have them all day to play with)

I told her I'd make her anything she wanted for breakfast, and I'm not surprised her request was doughnuts...made it easy on me.

We went to music makers at church where they sang happy birthday which she loved

I surprised Gracie by taking her and a friend to see Rapunzel

We finished off the night with another party at a friends house which Grace thought was thrown all for her (nice and easy for me).

She's been looking forward to turning 4 for a while, and we are excited and anxious to see what this new year will bring for our Gracie Girl. Happy 4th Birthday Grace. We love you!!!

(This was Sunday at church...she was so excited to be in Sunbeams!)

He's a Lady's Man

2011-01-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

Not only is Ben one brave man but he is caring, sensitive, patient, and the perfect Daddy to 3 daughters. We were thrilled to find out that we will be having another sweet baby Girl! Because Ben has been around women his whole life... (4 sisters, no brothers, and now 3 daughters) I've decided he is the perfect "Lady's Man". You really know how to deal with girls when you've lived with 8 (almost 9) throughout your life. This is going to be one lucky baby. This new little girl will fit in Perfectly!!! We can't wait to meet HER!!!

Sneak Peak

2011-01-01T08:40:00.001-08:00

Preschool Program

2010-12-17T13:17:00.000-08:00

Went from this...

to this...

I Knew this would happen. All week long Gracie was so excited to perform her Christmas songs for us. She practiced the words and the movements and couldn't wait to show us. Although, she also kept asking all week, "What if I have to go potty while I'm up there?" I told her she would be fine and we'd go before. "But what if I really have to go again?" So, the night of the performance we went potty right before we left and I asked her again if she had to go before she went on stage.

You can guess what happened. Of course, during the middle of one of the songs she starts crying loudly and saying she has to go potty. After pulling her off stage and talking to her (to find she actually realized she doesn't have to go) she was all smiles. That little stinker had her own little solo performance planned all along!

Gingerbread Party

2010-12-17T13:02:00.000-08:00

Gracie's playgroup did an awesome Christmas party this year for the kids based all around gingerbread. They read the story, went on a scavenger hunt, made gingerbread houses and place mats, had a gift exchange, and enjoyed some yummy good food. Ms. Bridgett had it at her house and did a wonderful job. We've been meeting with these girls weekly since Gracie was Abby's age. We all met way back at the library or music makers, formed our own group, and have been meeting ever since. I've loved the time with all the Mom's and the kids have loved growing up together.

Grace thought this was the best party until this...luckily after about 10 minutes she decided she did like her gift. Poor girl who gave it to her and saw her cry after opening it.

It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas

2010-12-05T17:52:00.000-08:00

Or should I say it's Been looking a lot like Christmas. We've had our decorations up since a week before Thanksgiving. We were really excited this year and since Ben had the time off we took advantage of him being around.

Tonight the girls and I made and decorated a graham-cracker house. It was a lot of fun and reminded me that I haven't blogged about Christmas time yet.

I must brag about this 8 ft. tree I got this summer from a yard sale for only $10. It's so much better than our 5 ft. one we use to have.

This is a tradition that Nana gave us many years ago that my kids love. Every morning in Dec. they take turns opening a present until Christmas (or in our case this year...until we visit Nana and Pop in Guatemala).

A new tradition that Grandma sent us was an "Elf on the Shelf". It has been working wonders and the girls love finding "Flash" every morning (the name chosen completely by Gracie).

I'm Thankful for my Family

2010-11-27T18:51:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving I had many things to be thankful for, but my Family was at the top of the list...

Due June 1, 2011

Sutterfly is "FLY"

2010-11-23T18:07:00.000-08:00

I love Shutterfly. Not only for making photo books, and printing pictures, but they offer some pretty "fly" photo Christmas cards. Many of the Christmas cards that I have gotten throughout years have been from Shutterfly and I always think they look the nicest and are the cutest. Hopefully this year our picture will be as cute as the card itself. Go here or here to find some of the amazing offers they have this year. They also have some cute calendars here that would be great for the new year or even as a gift. Not to mention they are offering the BEST promotion right now. Just for blogging about Shutterfly I receive 50 free Christmas cards...you should do it too!

What we've been up to

2010-11-15T15:48:00.000-08:00

It's finally cooled off a little. Sunday we had a fire in our fire pit, roasted marshmallows, and had our first cup of hot chocolate for the season. Both were a big hit.

Gracie had her first dentist apt. and did great. I couldn't stop smiling watching her the whole time in the chair. Besides trying to put her tongue on every instrument that went in her mouth she was a still as could be.

Halloween Week

2010-11-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

I love Ben's new schedule! Basically for the past two weeks he's been going in at 7 and been home by 3. Most of the time it has been noon. He took off Thursday and Friday (in addition to the Saturday and Sunday he already had off) and we decided last minute to go to Sea World (since we have season passes). The weather was perfect, there were no crowds, the girls were wonderful, which meant we all had a great time.

Halloween week included a play date Halloween party, preschool party, and ward carnival/trunk or treat. The plan was for the girls to be cupcakes and we would be the bakers. Gracie insisted on being a fancy witch (which fit her perfect for that particular day) then decided to sweeten up and wanted to be Tinkerbell (dress up we already had that was very worn)...whatever makes the girl happy.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-21T17:29:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we took the girls to the Silo Pumpkin Patch. It's a cute family owned farm that we have enjoyed going to the past 3 years.

Disneyland

2010-10-16T18:36:00.001-07:00

The last Friday we were in California we went to Disneyland. It is such a magical place not only for the girls but for me too. Something about all the characters, music, and everyone smiling really makes it the happiest place. Gracie's favorite thing was having the characters autograph her book. This year she was tall enough for the Matterhorn and the roller coaster in Toon Town. She Loved both of them...the faster the better. Abigail would get off a ride and say "more rides" and loved Its a Small World. We miss you Disneyland!

San Diego Zoo and LA County Fair

2010-09-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

San Diego Zoo

Last weekend I watched my friend Amber's little boy, Brendan, in San Diego. Ben met up with us and we were able to use her free passes to go to the zoo. It was HUGE!!! We took the 40 minute bus tour around the park which was they way to go to see most of the park. The grounds were beautiful. I must admit that I did not love it...at least at this stage in life. The kids were too young. I prefer our small zoo in Waco, Tx that you can get through in a couple hours.

LA County Fair

Last night was my first time at a County Fair.

I didn't realize the 5 hours we were there would all revolve around food. Between 7 adults and 7 kids we ate: 5 ears of corn (covered in butter, mayo, hot sauce, etc.) chili cheese fries, bloomin onion, baked potato, 5 cheese on stick, 3 funnel cakes, a Krispy cream chicken sandwich, 2 carnitas tacos, a caramel apple, and a fried Klondike bar. We would eat and then walk around to find the next thing to eat.

I feel like I got the true fair experience of which I could only handle once a year.

Girls Weekend

2010-09-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

I am sooo refreshed! I guess it was more like Girls half a Week. Wednesday afternoon we drove up to San Fransisco for our 2nd annual Girls Trip. We were sad that Kenna and Melinda could not make it, but hope to all be a part of it next year. Thanks to my father-in-law we got an amazing deal at a Marriott Hotel which was a big factor in how we were able to stay for so long. The other factor was thanks to my Aunt Robin and friend Amber who watched my girls. Here's how our trip went down.

Wednesday: Left at 2. Arrived around 5:30. Ate dinner at Marie Calendars. Spent almost 3 hours at Target browsing each aisle. What a nice treat to have no kids to worry about. Took a quick dip in the hot tub before going to bed.
Thursday: Woke up at 9 and headed to the city. Ate lunch at Fisherman's Wharf, dessert at Ghirardelli square, and lots of window shopping.

Friday: Realized we didn't come prepared with the right outfits for the wedding(I forgot my shoes), and did more shopping. Sara's rehearsal dinner.

Saturday: Ordered way to much breakfast at Mimi's Cafe. Gave ourselves 3 hours to get ready...so nice. Wedding.

Sunday: Drove home and arrived to our wonderful families at 4pm.

Happy Birthday Benny Boo

2010-09-20T19:35:00.001-07:00

Happy 27th to my amazing husBEN! We celebrated yesterday evening for a few short hours before he had to head back to work. I'm so happy I have him in my life. He is an incredible father and an even more amazing husband. We love you and are so grateful to have you in our lives. Happy Birthday!

~love, Your Girls

Labor Day

2010-09-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

It was a nice treat that Ben had off Labor Day. Not only that but he came home at 4 Friday afternoon, had all of Saturday off and only worked until 5pm Sunday. It was a nice long weekend that went by too quickly.

Friday night he and I went on a date to Cheesecake factory.

Saturday he took the girls to get donuts in the morning and a Daddy-Daughter date in the afternoon to the mall where they played, rode the train and merry-go-round, then to McDonald's for lunch. That night we did night swimming at the Menloves.

Sunday night all of the Kochs had a slumber party and of course Ben and I won at Joker. All the grand kids slept over (except Josh).

Monday morning Grandma made us a big pancake breakfast. The boys played basketball. The kids had a lemonade stand and we went over to the Merkley's for a BBQ and swimming.

Auntie Nora

2010-09-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

We spent most of last week with Auntie Nora. My kids have one fun Auntie. We went to the mall, visited Auntie Robin, had 2 slumber parties at her house, street fair in Huntington Beach, story time at the library, and banana pancakes for breakfast. My favorite parts seem to revolve around the car. Since her CD player wasn't working and the kids wanted kid music she would sing super loud "Little Red Caboose" with random movements every time we got in the car. What a great mom to keep the kids happy. My other favorite car part was that she let me drive home their extra car. It's for sell if anyone is interested. I think me with my kids in their car seats in the back are perfect advertisement for selling it. Adam used to call it the chick magnet and I'd say that's just what we look like in it.

Week 3

2010-09-03T11:09:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday Kenna and Addie came over for dinner and to hang out. It was fun having all the cousins together and they especially loved playing in the backyard with their Popsicles.

Heather and Nick came in late that evening to spend a couple days. They were so sweet and let me and the girls tag along with them to the beach. By the end of their stay Gracie was calling them "Auntie Heather and Uncle Nick". Heather is my old roommate and I love spending time with her. We spend most of our time laughing and reminiscing about college.

My friend Amber came over one afternoon with her little boy Brenden and we had lunch, swimming and Popsicles in the backyard.

Saturdays has been Ben's day off so this past Saturday we all went to the Science Center in LA. They had so many cute things for the kids to do and the cost to get in was Free!

Hope every one's enjoying the end of hot summer days!

2nd Week in California

2010-08-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

So, the first week in California we were on our cruise. This past week was filled with lots of fun. Some things included...

Taking the metro into LA to eat breakfast at "The Pantry"

Going to the Tide Pools and Aquarium

Swim Lesson

Street Fair

The Beach

and of course, spending a lot of time playing with cousins

Cruising

2010-08-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful 4 day cruise from LA to Catalina Island and Ensenada. It was the perfect way to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. We realized that the two of us haven't been away together since before we had Gracie. (Thanks to my sister for watching the girls.)We loved staying up late together, sleeping in (one morning Ben slept until 10:30), sight seeing, relaxing, and just being together. It really didn't matter what we were doing we just enjoyed having one another all to ourselves. Many people asked us if we were on our honeymoon. I don't know if it's because we were always holding hands or b/c we look so young.

In Catalina we took a glass bottom boat and saw a lot of fish.

In Ensenada we shopped at the flee market and went to La Bufadora (a famous blow hole). It was funny seeing Ben use his Spanish to bargain at the market. The locals were impressed at how well he spoke.

Formal night on the cruise

Spray Tan: What a great alternative!

2010-08-05T13:14:00.001-07:00

It's natural

It leaves your skin looking sun-kissed

It has the appearance of air brushed

It's way faster than tanning lotions

If spray tanning seems like such a great idea to give your skin a beautiful sun kissed appearance before your cruise that you are taking with your husband for your five year anniversary, well then...

...think again!!!!

Imagine the surprise

Imagine the looks and stares

Imagine this over all of your skin.

(I'd like to say that this image has been photo shopped, but oh no...it's all natural-if you can say that)

Silly Girl

2010-08-01T19:41:00.001-07:00

Gracie has been saying the funniest things lately that crack me up. (I mostly wrote these down for my memory)

M: "Gracie your hair looked so pretty today in french braids. Did you like it like that?"

G: "No"

M: "Why not? Everyone said it looked so cute?

G:"Because I didn't want to have French Braids, I wanted to have French Fries."

G:"What are those people doing over there?"

M:" They're working out"

G:"What does that mean" (obviously I'm a bad example of this)

M:"It means they're getting in shape"

G: "Are they trying to be a triangle?"

Lake House

2010-07-26T14:55:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful time at the lake house this year. It was a nice relaxing trip and all the kids did really well. We were there Thursday through Saturday, split the meals, had plenty of rooms for sleeping, and enjoyed our time together with family. The girls LOVED the water.

This was a first

2010-07-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

Today when I answered the phone this is what I heard on the other line...

"Hi Sweetie, is your Momma there?"

I don't know who was more embarrassed. Me or her?

As a side note, this has been my girls favorite thing to do at the park lately.

MOOOOve out of my way!

2010-07-10T06:29:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, the girls and I dressed up like this...

If you went to Chick-Fil-A yesterday dressed up like a cow you got an entire free meal. So the girls and I put black construction paper on white shirts, made black hooves, made ear head-bands, ribbon tails, and Mooed on over.

It was quite embarrassing when we walked into a store full of people and no one was dressed like a cow. But, you better believe I got 3 entire meals with fries, large drinks, and all for free.

When Ben got home from his test last night at 7, I put my cow gear back on and headed to a new Chick-Fil-A to get free food again for him. This time it was an outdoor walk up window only. You better believe I felt like the biggest cow by the time the night was over.

4th of July

2010-07-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

All 16 grandkids at the pool...pretty cute!

For the 4th we headed up to Dallas to be with Nana and Pop since they are home for the whole month. We had a lot of fun being with cousins, doing fire works, swimming, going to see Toy Story 3, special trip to "Amazing Jake's", girls night a Cheesecake factory and seeing Eclipse, and just being together. Ben came with us and studied for Step 2 all day then spent a couple hours with us in the evenings. We had a wonderful few days and look forward to more time together with everyone at the Lake House.

Messy Party

2010-06-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to go to the "Messy Party" again this year. Thanks to our friends from playgroup who hosted, we had a really messy time. Messy-ness included: painting, a pudding pool, water tank, spaghetti pool, whipped cream, and dyed water in spray bottles to spray a sheet. All of this combined with sweaty kids, grass and dirt (which stuck to them) made for a really fun morning. Gracie loved going from the pudding to the tank of water, back to the pudding. She definitely looked like one big mess. Abby enjoyed it all as well.
Before:

After:

Happy Daddy's Day

2010-06-20T17:28:00.001-07:00

Check out the tie Gracie decorated for Ben. I love that he was so proud to wear it to church.

We are so lucky to have the best Dad in the world living in our house. Ben truly is such a wonderful Dad. When I watch him play with the girls, I can see how much he loves and admires them. He sets such a wonderful example of love and patience. Gracie always says how she wants to marry Daddy. Not only does this remind me how lucky I am to be married to such a wonderful man, but brings me happiness knowing she will look for those same qualities that Ben has in her future husband. What a great role model he is for our children. My favorite thing is that this Daddy, can be a kid and a Dad at the same time. I love watching him play house, dress-up, give horsey rides, dance, and laugh like he's still a little kid while at the same time have the respect, leadership, love and honor of being a Dad. You do a great job in a house full of girls and we love that you are the only boy in our lives! We love you Daddy! Happy Fathers Day.

Sea World

2010-06-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

We took a last minute trip to Sea World on Monday (Memorial Day) and Tuesday. Ben took a personal day off...he had one left he needed to use by the end of this week. Even though it was pretty hot and crowded we didn't let that stop us from having fun!

We ate dinner on the River Walk

Abby played here...

While Gracie went here...

We all swam...

Some got in trouble ...

We fed the dolphins...

Saw Shamu...

Rode the rides...

and played...

Some took naps there...

While others crashed on the drive home...

We Love Sea World! Until next time...

Aunt Tami and Uncle Steve

2010-05-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Gracie and I took a trip to Tyler, Texas to visit Aunt Tami and Uncle Steve for the "Birthday Bash". It was a long drive (3 hours each way) but well worth it. I loved visiting and enjoyed their company. Every time I visit them I am reminded of how much Uncle Steve reminds me of my Dad. Grace warmed up quick and enjoyed the 4-wheeler with Uncle Steve to see the goat and donkey.

Fancy Nancy Tea Party

2010-05-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

Friday afternoon I threw a Fancy Nancy Tea party for Gracie and 5 of her friends. We decorated bags to make them fancy, read the book Fancy Nancy, learned tea etiquette, had tea (lemonade) and lunch, danced, painted nails, and enjoyed being girls. It was SOOO much fun for ME and I think the little girls liked it too. I've decided that every girl needs a tea party once a year and that is just what I plan on doing.

Best HusBen

2010-05-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

I have the best husBEN! For my birthday/mother's day he got me a new Cannon Rebel camera and I LOVE it! It's crazy the difference a camera makes in the quality of a picture. My favorite part is it takes it as soon as I hit the button. I can actually get pictures now at the very moment I want. I've loved playing around with the camera and think I might have just acquired a new hobby.

Also, Ben got inducted into the National Medical Honors Society, Alpha-Omega-Alpha a couple of weeks ago. I am so proud of him. He was nominated and will be the President for the students of A&M next year. The requirements are good grades, work ethic, integrity, extra curricular. and overall well rounded student. (These pictures are not with my camera).

On a side note, Abby loves to fold her arms for prayers and say amen. She's been doing it for about a month now. It brings a smile to my face every time. Also she has taken about 10 steps...maybe she'll beat her sister to walking.

I love Being a Mom!

2010-05-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

I truly feel it an honor to be called "Mommy".

I am so grateful for the examples of mothers I have around me. All of the women in my life have had such a great effect of me. Especially my sweet mom who is always an example of love and patience.

I gave a talk in church today about mothers and came across this story. It is not my own, but has allowed me to reflect and truly inspired me to be the best Mom I can be.

I realized something when I opened my fridge this afternoon.
I am not much of a cook.
When I do bother, I typically make things that require little or no technical effort.
We eat a lot of fresh stuff that requires no actual cooking.
Salads, veggie trays, fruit plates, etc.
And I usually, purposely, make huge amounts so that we can share
or even just eat it for several days in a row ourselves.
So today's revelation came as a bit of a surprise.
As I rummaged the shelves for something to throw together, it hit me...
Profoundly.
As it turns out,
I do not like Leftovers.
In fact, I think I might even hate them.
Aside from being a pain to store,
nothing ever tastes quite as good as when it is freshly prepared.
It's always a little too soggy.
A little wilted or a tad brown around the edges.
A bit crusty on top.
Or just a little thicker than it should be.
You know how they are.
Leftovers...
Not quite the same, but good enough, we say.
And so much easier!
Convenient.
I serve them to my family all the time!
In fact, sadly, maybe more often than not.
And I don't mean just for dinner, either!
Which brings me to my point...
How often in life am I giving those that matter most, my Leftovers?
These boys, who are my heart and soul,
often get whatever is '"Left-over" of me
whenever I think I am done with the rest of my commitments.
They get the little blob of energy that's left of me, after running around all day.
A cold slab of minimal effort, because I just want to be done already.
The crumbs that are left of my patience.
And if they are really lucky,
I might even top it off with the tiny little dollup of fun that I might actually have left.
But more often than they deserve,
they get the frantic, task-oriented Drill-Sargent Mom who is running short on time.
Or the exhausted, Do-It-Yourself Mom who is ready to collapse.
Even, occasionally, the grumpy, short-tempered, ornery Mom who is at my wits' end.
They get a signature on their homework slip for reading a story to me
while I made a mental grocery shopping list.
They get a "Woo-hoo" from me in the kitchen, amid the dinner preparations
when they play perfectly through their piano piece, all the way over in the Music Room.
They get a smile and an "Mmm, hmmm" when they show me their latest cool Wii maneuver,
Or tell me about the awesome play they ran in the football game at recess that day.
Neither of which, if quizzed, I could describe 30 seconds later.
They get a half-hearted high-five when they tell me their chores are done.
A two minute back tickle at bedtime, so I can rush to a set of photos that need editing.
Or a quick kiss goodnight as I run out the door for a Ladies' Night Out.
How often am I half-listening?
Looking past them?
Talking at them?
Or even in the same room, but far, far away in my thoughts?
All Leftovers...
I am serving them Leftovers.
Spending the majority of myself elsewhere
and then giving the little bit that's left, to them, as if it is enough.
I'm there, always, but am I really there?
I'm going through motherhood's motions, making mental lists.
Always the lists.
Planning ahead to the next thing.
The To Do's that can never be all the way done.
You know them...
The cyclical routines that fill our days.
As I think now I realize that this is the time.
The time for me, as well, to be done with lesser things.
The time to focus on what is most important.
Most lasting. Most eternal.
More than ever before.
Not the good things.
Or even the better things.
But the best things.
The very best things.
As you approach the center of a bulls eye,
the margin for possible error becomes more and more narrow.
The degree of accuracy necessary becomes more and more pointed.
We are approaching that bulls eye.
At an ever-increasing rate.
I, for one, am consciously re-committing to be done with lesser things.
To stop serving the Leftovers of myself to my family.
But instead to be fresh, ready and more present in the present.
Ready for them with a Feast.

After reading this I feel like I have a renewed purpose as a Mom. I hope that I can be ready for my kids with a feast everyday and not serve them my "leftovers". I love my girls so much and want to give them the best Mom that I am capable of being!

Kayaking

2010-05-01T10:49:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we took advantage of Ben being off and took a day trip to Austin. We went kayaking at Town Lake (aka Lady Bird Lake). Actually, it was more like Ben kayaked and the girls and I just enjoyed the ride. It was a beautiful lake surrounded by big cliffs on both sides. We saw A Lot of sea turtles and even a few water snakes and had a wonderful time.

5 Years

2010-04-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

That was then...

This is now...

Wow, what a wonderful 5 years it has been! I feel so blessed to be married to such an incredible man! When he's with me, I feel like I'm all that matters. We have the best life together and I look forward to sharing all the years to come. Ben really is perfect for Me! Happy Anniversary . I love you Benny-Boo-Boo!

Writing, Washing, Wearing

2010-04-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

Writing

Gracie is learning how to write her name. Today she drew "people" and wrote her name at the top of the page. She made 7 pictures for "Grandma, Nana, Mommy, Pop, Alli, Abby, and Carter" Sorry everyone else, but she said she'll make more later.

Washing

This was all Gracie's idea after it had gotten dirty at the park

Wearing

Thanks Grandma for the matching outfits

Blue Bonnets

2010-04-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again...Blue Bonnets. Texas may not be that pretty, but we love this time of year when these wildflowers are in full bloom and found all along the highways, fields, and parks.

12 Month Apt.

2010-04-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

Abigail had her one year check-up. 19 lbs 13 ounces (25th percentile) and 27 inches (10th percentile). Her doctor kept saying things like, "wow, she has a lot of personality...she sure knows what she wants,...and this girl has some spunk!" We love every little part of her!

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T18:36:00.001-07:00

I love celebrating holidays with my girls. Even though we did a lot of Easter celebrating with eggs and bunnies, I try to remember the real reason we're celebrating. I am so grateful for the Savior and his Resurrection, especially this time of year. It gives us meaning and purpose to our lives and helps us to live fully of all the blessings He has to offer us.

We made the switch...

2010-04-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

It's like a whole new adventure in the car now...

Egg Hunt

2010-03-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

We went to Nana and Pops house in Denton this weekend for the Martino Egg Hunt. It was a blast being with cousins, and even though it was a short trip (26 hours) it was totally worth it.
We went to the county fair to see Megan auction her chickens. I have never experienced something like this before. For those of you who are not familiar with this (like I was), these kids who have been raising animals (chickens, goats, sheep, pigs, cows, etc.) for the past year auction their animals. After experiencing this, I now truly feel like I'm in Texas. Megan was so cute standing up there and ended up earning $650. It was so fun to watch and the auctioneer cracked me up!

Happy Birthday

2010-03-23T19:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Abigail. My little baby is one year old. We had a great low key day celebrating her day together. She is such a sweet and spunky girl. We've slowly learned that she has a temper and will let you know how she feels. Still no signs of walking, but talking a lot and copying every thing Gracie does. Abigail we are so glad you came into our lives one year ago and feel so blessed to have you as ours. Happy 1st Birthday Abby!!!

Happy St. Patty's Day

2010-03-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

Just a few things I'm so LUCKY to have...

Guatemala

2010-03-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

For Ben's spring break we went to visit Nana and Pop in Guatemala and had a wonderful time!

Monday we spent all afternoon walking around Antigua and loved all of the beautiful sights including the cobblestone streets, people dressed in their authentic clothes, ruins, zip lining, market places, and lunch at Casa Santo Domingo.

Notice Grace's doll. She wanted to get one with a basket on the head like a lot of the women she'd seen.

We LOVED zip lining. Gracie did not want to put on all the gear and was screaming to leave. Luckily she was able to go with our tour guide and after the first zip, she was sold and didn't want it to end.

At the pinata store Nana told Grace she could pick out any one she wanted...her choice: the biggest one; Cinderella. After whacking it open, Ben repaired her and we saved her the rest of the trip as a little dancing partner for Gracie.

The Panaderia was right across the street from Nana and Pop's apartment. We came here multiple times and enjoyed all the delicious breads.

VIP movie theater...leather seats that reclined, and food service at your seat. This is my kind of way to watch a movie. It was super nice and comfy all for only 7 bucks a ticket.

Guatemala had a wonderful Children's Museum.

Abigail loved her first time ever swimming!

We went to Irtra on Saturday. It was a combination of zoo, park, and rides. There were peacocks walking all over the park. We ran into a group of school kids there and they were just as fascinated looking at Gracie and Abby (because of their blonde hair, blue eyes, and light skin) as they were looking at all the animals.

Thanks Nana and Pop. We had a wonderful Spring Break!

Today was Magical!!!

2010-02-23T18:10:00.001-08:00

11 Months

2010-02-23T17:51:00.000-08:00

It makes me sad to think that I only have one more month until she's one. Abigail is such a joy to be around and so easy going. Here are her stats for this past month:

-top, front two teeth coming in (which accounts for constant drool and a mouth rash)

-signs "more"

-claps

-loves using her walker

-LOVES the bath

-her spitting-up has finally died down.

-size 3 diaper

-only likes single purred fruits and veggies...very picky about eating.

-sleeps well (loves her taggie blanket)

Abigail we love you so much and feel so blessed to have you in our life. You are nothing but happiness and full of life.

Getaway

2010-02-23T07:29:00.000-08:00

Thanks Shorts for letting us come play while Ben was on call. We had a fun time (especially on the Barbie Jeep)!