Nothing but time

When you're little, it seems like time moves slowly. At least it did for me. The time between each birthday and Christmas seemed to drip like molasses. But now that I'm an adult, time seems to fly by at a rate that I simply can't keep up with.

And that's not an excuse for not updating my blog in the past ten months, it's just a declaration of how I'm feeling about life in general these days.

I've said it before (probably on this blog) and I'll say it again... "I wish time would slow down." Especially now that I have children. I want to savor every (well, almost every) minute of my time with them. It truly seems like just yesterday that they came home from the hospital...

...just yesterday that I learned to manage two babies' needs at one time.

...just yesterday that they learned to crawl, walk, talk, and run.

...just yesterday that they started Kindergarten.

SERIOUSLY, People...where does the time go?

I suppose it's only appropriate that time moves quickly.

With so many responsibilities and so many things to do in life, it wouldn't be right to move at a snail-like pace. But I refuse for time to make me feel like I'm in a race to get everything accomplished before I cross the finish line. I've done that for too many years now.

Even though I can't control time, I'm going to try and control how it makes me feel. Especially now, the first time in my life that I have the TIME to slow down, even if it wasn't by choice. ;)

I think I'm going to enjoy it while I can. Here's hoping it doesn't fly right by, too!

Lizards Beware!

One of my favorite things to do growing up was catch frogs and lizards. I wasn't nearly as successful in the hunts as my dad and brother were (and still are), but I loved the challenge and had fun nonetheless.

I guess it should come as no surprise that Miss Independent has become a fan of the hunting game as well. And unlike me at her age, she's actually quite good at it. She's caught two baby lizards in the last week and has created a "lizard habitat" in a container in the hopes of catching more. With that kind of positive thinking, I'm sure she'll do it. Unfortunately though, our trip is quickly coming to an end and she's got to sleep some time!

Journal Project: Summer 2012 (what's left of it)

Miss Independent and Little Miss are supposed to be writing in their journals every day this summer however, they're not really thrilled about it. I was explaining the importance of this project (strengthening their writing skills, documenting their adventures, etc.) when it dawned on me that I had my very own journal (of sorts) that I haven't put much effort in for quite some time.

So...as they're documenting their 2012 summer adventures I'm going to attempt to do the same. For starters, I just joined The Girls in Reno, NV, after being away from them for two-weeks. Prior to this trip, I'd only been away from them for two-nights!

You may be thinking to yourself that two-weeks doesn't seem very long, but for me, it felt like it was going to be an eternity. Many tears were shed -- mostly by me -- but thankfully we all survived, including my parents, who graciously offered to take them. Now that the girls are here, they may not offer to do it again! And that, my friends, would definitely be something to write about...

For the time being though, I'll just stick to highlighting some of our adventures across The Silver State and beyond.

Stay tuned and wish us luck!

Happy New Year! No, wait...

Yeah, New Year's has long past...

I had good intentions about continuing on with my goal of updating the blog at least once a week, but 2011 kind of got away from me. I'll be honest...this year has simply been OUT OF CONTROL and I don't like it. But that's just life, or so I'm told.

So rather than do a book report on all the things that have been happening over the past five months, I'll report where we are today...

• Home, from an awesome skydiving birthday party for The Man (see video below).
• Enjoying the rest of our Memorial Day weekend, which will include a trip to the movies to see Kung Fu Panda 2 in 3D (the girls can barely wait).
• Lathering ourselves up with Aloe because we're red like lobsters (okay, really it's just me doing that - I seriously need to pay attention to sun screen).
• Preparing for the last day of Kindergarten (can you BELIEVE IT?), which will be here in about three-weeks.
• Also preparing for Granny Kay's arrival, which happens just before school gets out. The girls are counting down the days on their calendars - literally!
• Wondering where the spring weather was, or went, and how it can possibly be almost-summer-time.

As you can see, life continues to roll on for our little family. It's not exciting all of the time, but it's definitely filled with moments that we'll never forget. Like The Man's 51st birthday party at No Limits Skydiving. He's always wanted to try it, so a drop from 12,000 feet was his gift this year. I can't say I wasn't scared to watch him fly through the sky - especially before his chute opened - but knowing how happy the experience would make him, made the gift (and my nerves) totally worth it. You can check out what he saw below...

You can view more pictures from the weekend here.

Promises to be back soon...if for no other reason than to document the moments our family never wants to forget...and the ones you're not always with us to enjoy.

Christmas Cards 2010

Ornament Bubbles Christmas

Turn your pictures into personalized Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Goodbye, Aunt Bonnie.

Me, Aunt Bonnie and my brother, Eric.
Greely Hill, California.

It is with great sadness that I write this post, but I feel that it must be done in honor of the woman who took so much time to document the events of my family and our ancestors.

My Aunt Bonnie, my dad's sister, passed away on September 30th, at the age of 79. Her passing came as quite a shock. Despite living with Diabetes and having an issue or two here and there, she was in very good health. In fact, she was one of the most spry 79-year-olds I've ever known. She could literally dance circles around many who were half her age.

It was that enthusiasm and zest for life that I will always remember about my Aunt Bonnie. She found joy in everything and had an incredible knack for making things fun. Trips to her house were filled with adventure and my brother and I never lacked for something to do. On more than one occassion, she'd pack us some snacks and we'd play for hours on this giant log outside her house. We'd pretend that it was our fort, a rocket ship or some other creative thing that only a child's imagination can dream up. Other times we'd ride bikes, go on nature walks, have frog races, fly airplanes or try on the gazillion clothes she made for us.

My Aunt Bonnie was extremely talented -- both artistically and creatively. Each year she'd come up with the most amazing gifts -- usually something she'd made from a family heirloom. From stuffed rabbits to Pringle can Santa's -- my Aunt Bonnie had a way of making the holidays extra special. Today, as I decorate for each holiday, I find a treasure from her to display.

In addition to painting, my Aunt Bonnie could knit like nobody's business. Some of my fondest memories are of watching her work with the needles -- creating something wonderful from a simple ball of yarn. During one visit, she made outfits for my favorite teddy bear and my brother's favorite monkey. She whipped them up like they were nothing and we were in awe! Thinking of her attending her "Happy Hookers" meetings (a knitting pun she came up with) still brings a smile to my face.

My brother and I show off the clothes Aunt Bonnie
made for our favorite stuffed animals.

Visiting my Aunt Bonnie's cabin home in Greely Hill was always special. She lived there for many years with my Grandma Dorothy and my Uncle Clay, who both required full-time care due to failing health. In addition to being a care giver for my grandmother and uncle, my Aunt Bonnie was constantly doing service for the rest of her family, her community and her friends. I will always remember her as a woman of faith, who made it a point to pray daily for those in need.

Although we lived on opposite coasts, my Aunt Bonnie never felt far away. She regularly sent letters, called to say hello and made a point of being involved in my family's life. She was great at documenting our family history and made sure that each of us received treasured heirlooms from the family members who went before us.

My Aunt Bonnie was truly a remarkable woman and loved by everyone who knew her. While she will be missed dearly by those she left behind, I firmly believe that she continues to do her good works in Heaven.

I love you, Aunt Bonnie. Thank you for everything. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

Happy Bithday, Babies!

I know I talk about my babies a lot, but in reality, they aren't babies any more. As of today, they are now six-years-old and growing faster day by day.

If you've kept up with my blog, you know this doesn't make me happy. I'm the kind of person that likes a good thing to last forever, and being a mom to two sweet baby girls was/is the most fun I've ever had. And the fact that time just keeps going by faster and faster reminds me that I need to try to slow down every now and then to relish the moments -- big and small.

Six years ago I received the two biggest blessings in my life. That day brought so much anxiety, but so much joy. Looking back, I don't know how my heart or body handled it all. It definitely wasn't easy, but sooooo worth every minute. Being part of their lives is an adventure I wouldn't trade for anything. I hope Miss Independent and Little Miss never forget much I love and appreciate them.

Happy Birthday, Babies!

OH! And just in case you're wondering...

Yes, we have a big party planned for tomorrow. Stay tuned for pictures and a recap.

She's coming!

Who is "she," you ask?

Wait for it...

"SHE," is my MOTHER-IN-LAW!

The good news is I love her, so it's a good thing that she's coming to visit.

The bad news is that my house isn't ready and I'm going to be up late trying to make sure it gets somewhat presentable.

It's been three months since we moved in and I still feel like I'm unpacking. Seriously, I have no idea when or if it will ever end.

Anyway...just wish me luck and stay tuned for an update about our visit with Grandma Beverly. The last time she came to visit us the girls were just eight-months old. We've seen her since, of course, but not on our turf. Boy how time flies!

What's for dinner?

Although it's more of an appetizer, the dinner we're most enjoying in my house is the Chicken Wreath, made on a baking stone.

I recently made two in one night -- one for the family and one for recipe club -- and they were both a hit.

The following recipe is an altered version of a recipe from Pampered Chef.





Baking Stone Chicken Wreath

Ingredients:
1 can (10 oz.) Chunk White Chicken; drained and flaked
½ cup Red Bell Pepper; chopped
1 small bunch Broccoli; chopped
1 cup Colby-Jack Cheese; shredded
1/3 cup Mayonnaise
1 tsp. Lemon Juice
½ tsp. Salt
2 pkgs. (8 oz.) Pillsbury Crescent Rolls

Directions:
Mix ingredients. Arrange crescent roll triangles into a circle or “sun” pattern on baking stone. Wide ends of triangles should overlap in the center with points facing toward the outside. Scoop mixture evenly onto widest end of each triangle. Bring outside points of triangles up over filling and tuck under wide ends of dough at the center of the ring. (Filling will not be completely covered.) Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

ENJOY!

Fall is here!

Miss Independent and Little Miss
October 2009

Okay, so it's not officially Fall until Tuesday, but it's close enough.

I was sorting through old photos today and came across this one from last year. We were living in Maryland and drove way out into the middle of nowhere to a pumpkin farm someone told us about. It was a drizzling day, but we figured all was well. However, when we finally arrived at the farm we were crushed to find out it was closed. It was a Chevy Chase Wally World moment for sure.

We kept driving and ended up at an Amish Farmer's Market. Despite the rain, we enjoyed picking out fresh fruits and vegetables -- including a couple of pumpkins -- as well as some yummy made-from-scratch cookies and sweet breads.

Anyway, reflecting on that day was all I needed to put me into a Fall State of Mind. I'm looking forward to things like:

• The State Fair
• The girl's birthday party
• The leaves changing colors
• The pumpkin farm
• Lower temperatures
• Caramel apples
• Trick-or-treating
• Pumpkin Pie

And so much more!

It's just about my most favorite time of the year. How about you?

I'm a Gleek and proud of it

I am now a Gleek.

I just caught up on Season 1 and am now officially ready for the premiere of Season 2, which airs next Tuesday.

I kept hearing the music and ended up buying a CD before ever watching the show (I have this thing for show tunes). I ended up liking it so much that I had to watch an episode. Within minutes, I was hooked.

It might be a little late, but that's okay. If there's one thing I've learned from Glee, it's that it's okay not to be part of the "in crowd." What's important is that I'm owning my inner diva-ness and singing with the rest of the Gleeks from now on.

If you're not a member, I would highly recommend checking it out. For me, the show has taken me back to my "I wanna be an actress" days and gets me up and moving. I can barely sit still and find myself singing and dancing -- Glee-style. And although they're not watching the show, Miss Independent and Little Miss have been enjoying a few of the tunes too. Our favorite right now is Don't Stop Believin' (by Journey). Good times!

Eclipse DVD coming in December!

I'm definitely feeling better today!

I just heard that the release date for Eclipse (on DVD) is December 4, 2010.

More information is available on Amazon.

Looks like I need to set up a viewing party!

Looking for the albino squirrel

I'm having one of those days. The kind of day where everything goes wrong -- from the minute you get out of bed, until the minute you fall asleep that night.

I hate those days.

I suppose I could take the high road and say that I'll learn something from this day.

I could remind myself that it's all worth it -- even if I can't see the reasons clearly right now.

I could think of all the things I'm grateful for, or throw myself into some act of service...

However, the only thing me and my bad attitude want to do is go back to bed and start over again. Unfortunately, life doesn't have a rewind button. Plus, it's almost 8:30 p.m.

But here's a happy thought...life does have a "do-over" button (assuming I live to see tomorrow). Each new day brings an opportunity for better things -- including better attitudes and a chance to find an albino squirrel.

Yup, you read that right -- a chance to find an albino squirrel.

Apparently there's one running around the neighborhood and my friend Amanda says if you see him, he'll bring you good luck. So I'm going to call it a day, get some rest, and then start my hunt tomorrow. Even if I don't find the albino squirrel, I bet I'll definitely find a better attitude!

Stay tuned...

Pre-school Days Photo Book

I thought I'd test out the "Share Project" feature on Shutterfly, which allows you to share projects you create with people who don't have accounts with their Web site.

I recently created this photo book to highlight the girl's two years of Pre-school. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Click here to view this photo book larger.

Hello, Kindergarten!

Little Miss and Miss Independent
September 7, 2010

WE DID IT!

And by WE, I mean...

ME -- I DID IT!

I was able to send them off -- on time and everything.

The girls did great. They were soooo excited to get on the bus. Of course my camera battery died after two pictures (apparently I'd left it on by accident the night before), so all of my pictures came via the iPhone and some really nice neighbors.

Stinger Bee Breakfast

But despite all of that, the day was great. We started with a "Stinger Bee Breakfast" (in honor of the school mascot). I made scrambled eggs, bacon and toast and shaped everything on the plate. Although I thought it looked like a bee, the kids thought it looked more like a bat. Here's a picture so you can decide.

The table was decorated with yellow and black accents. At each place setting was a new book, some flash cards and a really cool Tervis Tumbler with a bee on it. This breakfast idea will hopefully become a tradition that we do each year on the first day of school.

So after a few pictures, we walked to the bus stop. There were tons of parents and kids waiting with anticipation. There were at least six other Kindergartner's, so the girls made some immediate friends.

When the bus arrived, both girls ran to get in line. They totally forgot about mommy and daddy and didn't even look back for a picture. I managed to capture them getting to the door, but that was it. And since they are riding a newer style bus with tinted windows, I couldn't see which seat they were in. So, I ended up blowing kisses to every kid on the bus. :)

As far as crying goes, I managed to hold it together until the bus pulled away. The walk home was hard but I made it. Overall, I think I did pretty good -- all things considering (no sleep the night before, constant anxiety, etc.). I concentrated on work until it was time to go back to the bus stop to pick them up. It was so fun when they arrived. They had a ton of stories to share and said they were excited to go back.

In a nutshell -- this worrisome mom couldn't be happier with how the day turned out. And, hopefully, from here on out, I'll be much less worrisome (yeah, right).

Thanks to everyone who called to check on me throughout the first day. Your comforting words meant so much to me.

Here's to a great school year!

Just keep swimming...

In less than ten hours my babies will be heading off to Kindergarten.

My pulse is racing and I have hundreds of thoughts in my head.

What if we don't get up in time?

What if they refuse to get on the bus?

What if I refuse to let them get on the bus?

What if they have a terrible day?

AAAGGGHHH!

Okay, deep breath. I know I will survive. I'm not the first person to go through this. There are TONS of teachers and volunteers just waiting to help make their day great.

I can do this. I can do this. I WILL do this.

Wish me luck.

I'll be up at the crack of dawn making a "First Day of School" breakfast for the monkeys, then it's off to get them ready, take pictures, put them on the bus, etc.

Stay tuned for a report on how it all goes. Assuming I survive the day...

I feel like Nemo's dad did (in Finding Nemo) on Nemo's first day of school. He was totally paranoid about every little thing and Nemo ended up getting sucked into the fisherman's net.

I guess my mantra should be, "Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming." like Dory suggests and all will go well.

Dear Kindergarten:

Since we're meeting each other for the first time, I thought it would be fair to warn you that I'm going to be one of THOSE parents.


You know...



The kind of parent who:

• Cries the first time they open the school doors.
• Cries when walking down the hall to her child's classroom.
• Cries when filling out paperwork.
• Cries when talking to the office staff/teacher/principal for the first time.
• Cries while taking a gazillion pictures of her babies.

You know...


The kind of parent who:

• Does all of this at Kindergarten Orientation -- BEFORE school even starts!

Yup. That's ME. I'm one of those parents!

However, in fairness, there's a reason I'm THAT kind of parent.

I am the parent of twins.

Let me rephrase.

I am the parent of ONLY twins!

I am going through this process for the first AND last time -- AT THE SAME TIME! My emotional state is working double duty because I'm sending my first and last babies out into the world -- at the very same time -- and it's killing me.

Yes, I know I didn't warn you that I would cry like a baby today. In all honesty, I didn't know I would. And, yes, I will probably do the same thing next week when school starts...

BUT, please don't judge me on these days alone.

Just bear with me and understand that while I've had years to prepare myself, the time has gone by too quickly and I'm still not ready to let my children go. Not just yet.

Surely I'm not alone in feeling this way, Kindergarten, so I'd appreciate you empathizing with me and all of the other parents going through similar situations.

In closing, I appreciate your patience -- in advance -- for I have no idea how I will act or react during our one-time-only, year-long relationship. With that said, I say "let the madness... I mean, wonderful memory-making begin!"

Sincerely yours,
THAT Parent (at least for now)

Birthday beach trip!

The beach trip for my birthday was a great little get-away for us. Our only regret about the trip was that it didn't last longer.

I'd forgotten how much I love swimming in the ocean, searching for sea shells, eating crab legs and going to the candy store for salt water taffy.

As you can see from the picture, the girls loved the trip too, and they did everything they could to stay at the ocean as long as possible. Can't say I blame them!

To see pictures from our trip, click here.

Block Party!

Before I moved from Maryland I had a craft night with a dear friend of mine, Kelley. We made "Be Blocks," which another friend of mine (Rachele, from Arizona) dreamed up and even had published in a paper craft magazine.

If you've never heard of Gordon B. Hinckley's book, Way to Be!, I highly recommend reading it. It's a book about virtues and highlights nine ways to be happy and to make something of your life.

Here are the nine "Be's"...

1. Be Grateful
2. Be Smart
3. Be Involved
4. Be Clean
5. Be True
6. Be Positive
7. Be Humble
8. Be Still
9. Be Prayerful

Great, great book and a really quick read.

Anyway -- the blocks turned out beautiful and I'm so glad we had an opportunity to make them together. I miss you, Kelley. I'm glad you love the blocks as much as I do. And thanks, Rachele, for creating such a beautiful memento of President Hinckley's "Be's" -- I'll treasure mine forever.

In my dreams, I'm Wonder Woman

For as long as I can remember, Wonder Woman has been my hero. Like lots of little girls, I would spin around and pretend to turn into Wonder Woman. I would fly around the house in my Wonder Woman Underoos. I would watch the TV show and pretend that it was me fighting crime "in satin tights." :)


Put simply, Wonder Woman is awesome.

And so is my favorite birthday present this year.

My parents sent me this framed picture of Wonder Woman, which I'm proudly displaying in my office. So even if I can't BE Wonder Woman -- make that, even if I can't LOOK like Wonder Woman -- I can still see her every day and pretend that I am her -- out to save the world.

I can also make sure that my little girls grow up being fans too. Of course, they already are -- despite grumblings from The Man, who says the TV shows were a little violent. But what do you expect when you're fighting crime? Saving the world from a Nazi takeover ain't no picnic! Although, when you're Wonder Woman, you can make it look like a picnic. Here's to saving the world and looking great while doing it!