Duncan life

Spiderman Party II

2011-12-05T21:46:00.000-08:00

The pack of Spiderman invitations are still sitting on my counter. Sad, I know. Luckily I have some pretty good friends that I just told or emailed. There was a handful of kids that came over for a what turned out to be a great party. There were kids running around laughing and playing so I consider the party a success. Jude actually enjoyed the bounce house better when there was just one friend left . Unlike his sister, I don't think he is use to all of the attention. There are days I'd love to just bottle up. I love you my little man, Jude-O, Booty, Budence Clearwater, Jude-O ben-oo-O,bubba gump, :)

Spiderman Party!!!!

2011-12-05T21:33:00.000-08:00

Jude turned 3 years old. He has been a complete angel and a dream to have in our home. He is such a polite boy. He is an example to me. He tells his family he loves us several times a day. He loves cars, trains, Curious George, WowWow Wubbzy, and Spider man. He loves to play with his sister. He loves to laugh with his sister uncontrollably. Jude also loves chocolate milk.

Zoe turns 5 years old!!

2011-08-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

Well, now I am the mother of a 5 year old. My little Zoe has turned 5 and will be starting kindergarden in less than a month. How did this day creep up on me? I was just getting used to the idea of having her in preschool (loving it, by the way). There is this weird reluctance however to let go of my little child and send her off to "the world" to survive without me ALL DAY! OK, I know this slightly dramatic. Zoe will actually love it. She gets so bored durning her brothers nap time, school will keep her busy. People say it all of the time, how fast it all goes. I'll take a breath or blink and next thing I know she'll be driving. This little girl for sure keeps me on my toes. She loves to push my limits. She loves to ask me for anything all day long. Zoe is very concerned with scheduling out the day. It's always,"mom what are we doing today? How about after that?" or ," Can we go to {so and so} house" She can bring out the best and worst in me. I'm still trying to figure out how to be a better mother for her. She loves her brothers!!! She is best buds with Jude. Watching them play together is one of the sweetest things I've ever seen. She also loves being a minnie mama to Kian. Her friends are also very important to her. She learned to ride her bike this summer with no training wheels. She has had a bike for 2 years I think and rarely rides it but one day she told Jamin that she wanted to try it without her training wheels. So, one evening is all it took and she did it! Zoe is also quite the swimmer. Last summer I couldn't even get her to put her face in the water and now she can actually swim which is a big relief to me. I love that she is a hard sleeper and will sleep 11 hours at night and sometimes even longer if her brother doesn't wake her up. She loves to sleep on the top bunk. She has her own room but chooses to sleep in her brothers so she can have the top bunk. I also think she thinks her brother will scare off any monster in the night. She loves to draw and paint. She loves Hello Kitty, Rupunzel,My little Pony, Barbie, and any other girlie thing. I love this little girl! Happy Birthday ZoZo.

newborn plus two

2011-06-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hello blog, I do like you, it's just that I have been busy. I have been spending time with the popular more shallow kid at school called "Facebook". It is easy to be friends with him but he doesn't quite have the depth that you do so I return to you for something a little more than a one nightstand.

The emotional last month of pregnancy:

My little guy is here! His beginnings have been nothing short of an ordeal. When I was 36 weeks pregnant I went to fetal diagnostic(FD)s 2/wk where they checked the heart rate for 20 minutes and checked the amniotic fluid by ultrasound. This was all done because the umbilical cord had only 2 vessels(normal one has 3). There has been nothing to cause any alarm this whole pregnancy it's just standard for someone with this condition. Much to my shock, on the second visit to FD my babies heart rate dropped. At first, I thought the monitor had simply moved and wasn't reading it right, so I buzzed the nurse to let her know it had moved but after a second and third nurse came in and practically had me upside down(I'm not kidding) I knew something wasn't right. Five minutes later the heart rate was back to normal. My amniotic fluid was also 5.5. If it is below a 5 they would induce but at 36 weeks the best thing for the baby was to keep him me for a bit longer. The doctor at FD wanted to monitor the heart rate overnight to make sure it wasn't dropping regularly so I spent the night in the hospital with an IV pumping fluid in me. I didn't even know that would help. I guess I wasn't drinking enough water for how active I was. I was freaked out and so was Jamin. We didn't know what to think. If the heart rate dropped again and was a problem the only option would be emergency C-section. Luckily the heart rate was fine all night and I got to go home but was put on strict bed rest. My doctor told me to drink as much water as I could and just get up to walk to the bathroom. Do they not know I have 2 kids? My nieces and my mom came and helped me with my kids. Doing nothing for 2 weeks got my fluids up to 15 and the hear rate was fine so I took myself off of bed rest. My kids were at my mom's in Bakersfield so I just had 5 days of "me" time. It was AWESOME! Jamin and I went out to dinner and to the movies. I sewed a car seat cover and basically de-stressed.

The delivery:
Of course my due date came and still no baby. If the last month hadn't happened I might not have been so annoyed. All of my kids are late and I really wanted to go into labor on my own but everyday he wasn't born was stressful. I just wanted him here healthy, safe in my arms. So, that was the 10th of April and on the 12th I went to FD knowing my fluids would probably be too low. How else am I going to go into labor if I don't walk around Disneyland and the mall and wherever else I can? I was right. The nurse doing my ultrasound didn't say anything at first but then said my fluids were 4.3 but would get a second nurse to see if she could find more and she did. It was 5.1 or 5.4. I can't remember but it was good enough for them. They were relieved(I wasn't) and told me to go home. That was like 9 am. At home, I decide that I going to give my baby and me positive labor thoughts by packing for the hospital. I have been semi-packed since the first hospitalization incidence but this time I packed it all. Around 11;30am the nurse called me and told me the doctor thought the fluids were too low and that I should get induced and to head over. Yes!! That is what I wanted to hear. I love this part! I love going to the hospital to have a baby. It might sound weird but the whole experience amazes me. My sister Dana came over and watched my kids till my mom arrived and I headed to the hospital when Jamin got home. It was probably 2pm. I was hooked up around 3pm and then the wait began. Jamin busted out the baby name book. Once again we had no name. I was dilated at 2/3 on arrival then around 7 only3/4. an hour or so later the nurse wants to stick something up inside me to get an accurate heart rate of the baby. She had turned the monitor so I couldn't see it anymore which I didn't understand why until later. Got epideral around 7:30. About 10pm I finally started to feel the pressure. An hour later the nurse is like,"don't push let me get the doctor" My doctor had pulled an all nighter the night before so wasn't there. Luckily the doctor on call was Dr. Braithwate(sp?) an outstanding OB who was in my sister's ward. When he came in he told me not to push either. No mirror was provided but he said that I was getting an epeziotomy right away b/c we needed to get the baby out very calmly. A beautiful baby boy was shortly after placed on my chest. I was in love and I had never seen a more beautiful newborn. The doctor said he had cut the cord already because it had been rapped around the baby's neck. OK that explained a lot!! Well all seemed well. I was so happy to have my baby finally here delivered vaginally without problems.

12 hours later
Names narrowed down to a combo of 6 names or so. He also has a huge cyst on his bellybutton my pediatrician wants a surgeon to look at. that's right, my newborn baby was transferred to children's hospital not even a day old and I was released from the hospital to follow him. I was no longer a patient with nurses to wait on me or take my baby so I could sleep but I through my maternity clothes on and hopped in an ambulance with my newborn. Worst day ever! The NICU was not a place for parents. There was a hard chair to sit on next to this tiny bed in a room with 8 other babies. All that was accomplished was an ultrasound was performed but couldn't be read until the morning. There was no place to sleep and having no sleep the night before went home for the night and slept and cried. I was so hung up on the hospital experience I didn't get to have. My kids didn't get to come the hospital and meet their new brother the way I had imagined it. The ultrasound proved to be nothing immediately serious but the nurse told the doctor that the baby wasn't eating well and my milk hadn't come in yet. I almost lost it on this lady. I did protest in an adult way however. I have done this two times before and my milk doesn't come in until the night I come home from the hospital. Lady, I do have an idea of what I'm doing!! I told the doctor this. What? They can't keep my baby, I was about to get up and walk out with my child and flip'em all off as I left. I just had a baby people! Stitches are new. Think of the big picture here. The doctor team(it was a team just like on Grey's Anatomy) listened to me and released Kian.

Choosing a name
While we were still at Hoag(my sanctuary) i stared at my new little baby and knowing that we would be separated for a time I thought he needed a name. I couldn't just leave him in the arms of all of these nurses as "Baby Duncan". Jamin kept throwing names out he knew I didn't even like. Zephyr and Milo to be exact. Fine names for other babies maybe but I wasn't feeling'em.
He seriously could have chosen any of the six names on our list but nothing was coming to him. So I chose Kian Cooper Duncan. The nurses at CHOC immediately called him by his name and I liked how it sounded. Jamin still wasn't sold, not sure why but he later went back to Hoag to fill out the birth certificate and changed his middle name to "Nash". When Jamin came back to CHOC from Hoag we were finally released to go home with our baby Kian Nash Duncan. I was relieved! My mom, Zoe and Jude greeted us when we got home. I don't even know how to describe the feeling other than, "my cup runneth over". I felt truly grateful for my little family.

Jude's first haircut

2011-02-08T14:05:00.001-08:00

My little guy turned 2 in October! My how time flies. Jude got his first haircut last Saturday. He got to watch Jamin go first which we thought was a good prep. He was not excited about getting his haircut although he had been asking if he could cut his hair at home. After being handed a toy to play with he stopped crying and did pretty good. A little milestone and proud mama moment for me. I couldn't be luckier to have this amazing boy as my son. He is the sweetest guy. He says "No thank you" and asks nicely for things. He and his sister play great together but he is also content playing by himself. He gives great hugs and will just sit on my lap and watch a show with me if I want to rest without moving a muscle. At around 18 months he finally decided to talk and when he did he realized he knew english fluently. At 2 he decided he wanted to use the potty and now wears, "undies". I wish I could take credit for this amazing kid but he seriously just came that way. We love you Jude!

Skiing

2011-01-09T19:17:00.001-08:00

The day after Christmas Jamin took the kids skiing for the first time. Even little Jude went down one run. Zoe was the real champ. She did awesome! I was surprised to see how tough she was and didn't want to stop for a long time. Jude tried to put Zoe's skis on when they stopped for a potty break so we thought "why not". He did OK considering he's only two. The kids both loved playing in the snow and even made some snow angels.

Baby Boy Duncan is coming!!

2010-12-06T14:35:00.001-08:00

There is so much more to document but I fear that as long as I have a computer hidden in a room where I can't watch my kids, my alone time for blogging is few and far between. It is also spent doing things other than blogging. The fact that this is like a family journal is what motivates me. I must confess, I like snooping onto my friends sights and see what they are up to. I love a new post, so here is one from me. Many people I have seen in the past 5 months know that I am pregnant. Currently I am 22 weeks and we are expecting a baby boy sometime in April. There is a small abnormality where the placenta has only one artery where normal ones have two but so far everything looks normal. Sigh of relief.
I really contemplated whether or not to have anymore children for many reasons, but mostly on how poorly I react to not having any sleep when they are small. Jamin agreed to get up with the kids in the morning when the new baby comes so I can function better(one of the stipulations on having another child) Now that our little guy is on his way I am beyond excited I almost wish this wasn't my last. My legs of course are a mess but as long as I wear these REALLY sexy compression tights I can walk around without pain. So life is good. We decided not to take a job in Colorado. Although it would have been a good career move for Jamin neither of us really felt good about it. Zoe is finally in a preschool 3 days a week in the morning which she loves. 2 of her best buds are in her class with her. I just need to figure out what to do with her for the rest of the day...? She seems to thrive off of a schedule and having structure to her day. She is constantly asking me "what are we doing today?, how about after that?" I need a good chore chart/activity chart/ ect. My little Jude turned 2 in Oct. and deserves his own post for that one, but he is such a talker. I am amazed with the things he knows of which I never taught him. I mean, he seriously speaks in clear complete sentences(but he says "W" instead of "L"). Neither kid is a great eater so Jude is still taking formula a bit but basically it's in a sippy cup. He is still sucking on a pacifier. Every so often he'll spit it out and say,"I'm a big kid". Don't know where he got that from. I am slowly potty training him which is such a bigger pain with boys than girls simply because our toilet doesn't have a splash gaurd and he's to short to stand up and aim. My plan is to have him in a big boy bed in his room eating like a big boy and going potty like a big boy months before the new baby comes. Time will tell. At least I don't feel like I'm being drugged with sleeping pills like I did at the beginning of the pregnancy. I might actually accomplish some of my goals.

Yes, we were in Colorado

2010-10-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

Not totally settled back in the swing of things but getting there. Jamin worked for 6 weeks in Boulder, Colorado. The kids and I tagged along. We lived in a Residence Inn. Here is proof. On the weekends he wasn't working we got out and saw the sights. We visited the Rockies and saw the largest animals I've ever seen in the wild. These elk were enormous! There was a rumor that the hotel "The Shining" was filmed in was in Estes Park so we had to see it. Turns out, it wasn't filmed there but conceived there by Stephen King. Jamin wasn't as impressed by that scenario. The best part of the whole trip for me was visiting with old roommates and friends that had moved there over the years. One of my old roommates who I hadn't seen in years had my kids spend the night at her house while Jamin and I went out for my birthday! Life saver!!! Jamin and I ate at one of the if not the best eating establishments. It was called Frasca. Yummy! we even made it to a ghost town. I really missed home while I was there and I became even more grateful for the great life I have back in Huntington Beach.

The Party

2010-08-04T08:08:00.001-07:00

The party was a success!! We rented a bounce house which I thought was great. You get to have it all day long and adults can jump in it too. That's Robert Holmes doing a back flip. Who knew? It kind of turns out to be a big deal for me because my family comes from Bakersfield for the occasion so I stress probably more than I should. This year I was prepared. A few of Zoë's best buds came to celebrate with us. I got a pinata as an activity not really knowing how it would go with a bunch of little kids but even though it was more child proof than expected it was fun to watch the kids whack at it and it also gave them all lots of turns. After it was over Zoë said to me,"that was the best birthday ever!" All worth it, just for those words.

2010-08-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

Zoë is 4!!

2010-08-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

Four years ago I became a parent. Probably the most traumatic thing I've ever done. I have not slept the same since. It has also been the most fulfilling and rewarding one too.
Things my little 4 year old does:
She makes Jim Carrey faces and thinks she is the funniest thing ever.
She loves Scooby Doo, Dora, Princess, Hello Kitty, Strawberry shortcake and Barbie
She loves to sing. Loud.
She can sing the words to Scooby doo, and Princess and the Frog(there are others but these are her favorite right now)
She loves her friends
She loves to play with her brother
She loves Disneyland
She hates going underwater in the swimming pool
She loves popcorn
She loves to count
She loves to sit in the very back of the car with a friend
She loves to negotiate, nothing is ever "ok mom", it's ALWAYS "how about .......this or this instead"
She loves to play on the computer and is pretty good at it too.
She loves to play games, bingo, CandyLand, Old Maid
She is the shortest of all her friends
She only weighs 4 pounds more than her brother
She has the best laugh and the most painful whine
She is our little cutie and is so much fun to see her excited about things. She makes me laugh. She is growing up so fast. Happy Birthday ZoZo!

Chalk and bubbles

2010-07-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

A few bubbles and chalk really went a long way. We BBQ'd and I made homemade ice cream, hot fudge sauce, and choc. chip cookies in honor the Faulkner family. I have to carry on some traditions. I know my sister Tricia was in Bakersfield stirring up her own batch of homemade ice cream too. Yum!

4th of July parade

2010-07-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

4th of July parade

2010-07-05T14:57:00.000-07:00

My Dad and nephew, Dylan came into town for the weekend so the I wanted them to see what Huntington Beach has to offer for the 4th of July. Normally I end up in Bakersfield at my mom's house for the 4th. She has had a party on this day for as long as I can remember. Many families that I grew up with have faithfully attended it for more than 30 yrs. Now she is done throwing them and I'm trying get my family to come to Huntington for the 4th. First of the festivities was the parade on Main street. We have lived on Main street or downtown for years so I have never had to battle the crowds. Thankfully it didn't scare me off to try it again next year. We got to sit in front of our friends house and Zoe loved that cause she got to see some of her friends:) My dad was so impressed with how patriotic everyone is down here. Our street was lined with American flags . People on the parade route and all those who attend seem to come in red, white and blue ready to honor our country. The homes are adorned with pride as well. Kind of nice to see and to remember what a great country we have.

Sea World 2010

2010-06-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

Here we are again. Thanks to Brittany Bradshaw and the education week at Sea World we were able to go for a day at a smokin deal. Many of our friends went and it was a fun day. Although, I sat on a bench while Jude napped and missed the polar bear and vomiting walrus. Instead, I got to listen to a lady scream at her kids. Did she not see that I was sitting 5 feet away?
Zoe is our little ball of energy and loved to point out the fish and loved the flamingos because they are pink. Jude loves twice as much because he loves whatever Zoe loves plus what he loves. They were great and we were tired by the end of the day. We didn't stop there though. We met up with some friends at a BBQ joint that I can't remember the name of now but it has a line for days to get in and we brought with us 6 kids under the age of 3 with us. Nothing was broken and no clothes needed to be stripped off so I considered the night a success.

Soccer star

2010-05-07T12:53:00.000-07:00

I am so impressed by Zoe. The sometime fearful child took soccer by the horns and does great. Don't get me wrong they are 3yr olds and are just learning to trap, kick, and dribble. One never knows how each child will take to something, so far we have found a keeper with soccer. At least for today. I was just impressed to see she was coordinated. She informed me she is not going back to swim class(she's wrong). She was even twinners with her soccer coach except her shorts were pink. Too cute!

Swim lesson

2010-05-07T12:48:00.001-07:00

Zoe's first swim lesson!!! She is so big now. Swim lessons, soccer practice, next thing I know she'll be taking driver's ed. Her life is flashing before my eyes. We brought a cheering squad of dad a brother. For her first lesson she did great! She is not quite ready to let go of the instructor but she did hang on the wall contently. Baby steps.

Easter! Easter!Easter!

2010-04-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

Easter is still going on here at the Duncan household several weeks later. The whole concept of eggs being hidden and then finding them again has not lost it's appeal. Zoe begs for me to hide the eggs and toys throughout the day. Most of the time she hides them herself and then hunts them. Somehow, that version of hunting is great too. I am torn as to whether I should just put the eggs away completely so I don't have to deal with them anymore or continue to let them entertain her even though I am over hiding easter eggs or talking about eggs or having egg parties. Easter itself was a great day. Zoe was up early too excited to sleep. It was conference weekend so we didn't get dressed up for church which is why my kids are in there jammies. Jamin thought we should wait until after church to hunt easter eggs next year so HE can get a little more sleep. Well decorating them the night before was fun. Zoe mostly enjoyed putting stickers on them and we dyed them. Jude was not allowed to participate because he likes to dump cups out or drink out of them and the eggs he would have thrown on the ground. Next year little guy, it's all you. He was great at hunting them though. I was impressed and Zoe of course, hunted like a champ. I just can't resist getting into all of the holidays when I've got Zoe who has the greatest enthusiasm for them. They are both growing up too fast. Zoe is starting to act like a teenager at times and is using my own parenting tactics against me. The other day I asked Zoe where her shoes where and she replied,"mom you have to use your detective skills", something I say to her all of the time. Jude is just talking up a storm. He repeats whatever he hears, which can backfire, but mostly it's adorable. He is the happiest little guy. He gives hugs and big smiles in abundance. He loves his sister and follows what ever she does. They are best buds. It is so fun right now being their mom. So many fun moments that humble me and make want to be better I have witnessed as of late.

San Fransico day 2

2010-04-17T14:09:00.001-07:00

So day 2 I may have shopped till I dropped. It wasn't that I actually had bags of purchases, it just felt good to see things. What the heck are in stores these days anyway? I didn't really know. My shopping world mainly consists of the grocery store and Target. Union square provided a plethora of shopping. Jamin wanted me to have a trolley experience so we purchased tickets and waited. We traveled for 20 min. via trolley standing in the back. It was a nice way to see part of the city. As it turns out we didn't really need tickets. Our $10 fee was never collected. We ended up at Fisherman's Wharf. Through YELP.COM we found a delicious italian restaurant. It was so yummy, I didn't want it to end. We ended our food fest at Ghiradelli's square. If you've ever known me you know I value a good scoop of ice cream. They did not disappoint. Instead of riding the trolley for 20 min. at 9:30 at night along with some questionable companions I felt it was worth the money to take a cab back to the hotel. Great idea!! It was faster and cheaper than the trolley(and potential safer). Used the pool at the hotel and called it a night. I really could have stayed longer. It made me relax. My husband became more handsome and my children more sweet. Who knew this was all it takes.

San Fransico

2010-04-17T14:04:00.001-07:00

I never really knew it, but San Fransisco really is a great city! I've heard it called the "New York" of the west and it's true. It's also easier to get to. My husband suggested we take a few days by ourselves and stay in the city while we were up visiting his family. Genius! I will admit that I had a little separation anxiety even thinking about leaving my kids, especially Jude. He's never really been left before, even with a babysitter. Maybe this was my first clue that this trip was long overdue. We left the kids with Jamin's mom and I think I relaxed pretty much once we drove out of town. We drove up the coast from Sant Cruz to San Fransico. It was such a beautiful and relaxing drive. No traffic, just calm. I slowly started to develop a grudge for So,Cal. Why are there so many people there? Everywhere! We stopped at a strawberry farm that had delicious strawberry shortcakes and other yummy treats! It was a great suggestion per Jamin's sister who also recommended our hotel. There's nothing better than an actual referral to some place. When we actually got into the city I got a little turned around as to how to find the parking garage to our hotel and baffled Jamin as to my poor navigating. Not a great point in our trip I even screamed at a poor valet parking attended because I was so frustrated and we drove in an exit only driveway. Tempers settled and we got to our room and saw the view of the city. We stayed in union square. This was perfect location for what I wanted to do. Shop, see movies and go out to dinner. You remember those activities right? The ones you used to do before you had kids. Now, these are the kind of things I want to do when I have time to myself. Oh, and sleep. Mornings are so much less painful when I wake up on my own. That first night we used the gym at the hotel. Not exactly on everyones list for their vacation but working out is a luxury to me. We ate out and saw a movie,"Date Night" (my choice) which I really liked.

finally some plants!!

2010-02-23T13:16:00.000-08:00

before

after

before

after

It has taken us a while but we finally decided to put in some plants in the front yard. Jamin and I did all of the dirty work ourselves too. Accessorizing the house inside and out has not been a priority but it's funny how much these little things make it feel more like a home. The next trick is keeping the plants alive.

some pict's of the kiddies

2010-02-15T15:09:00.000-08:00

While Jamin's mom and Kevin were down at Christmas time we went to San Juan Capistrano to a antique store. It was really neat but I'm sure the store owner was watching us like a hawk waiting for my kids to destroy something. Luckily they didn't. I took them to a nearby park to run around. Scary thing though, popular place for transients. Jamin eventually joined us so I felt safer. Just some shots of the kids. Jude was easier to take pictures of, he's not as fast as Zoe...yet.

Christmas

2010-02-15T14:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day at the beach...what a life right?

Christmas Morning present time

Christmas Eve decorating cookies for Santa

Day-cation

2009-12-24T10:24:00.000-08:00

It took me 2 hours to find my former self. Maybe longer. My legs were stiff I was scared. I was the slow person. After falling and getting a small case of whiplash I wanted to go home. But I got up, we drove all this way. Mammoth is 4 hours there and 4 hours back from my parents where we left the kids that morning. I had to get up. I used to love this what happened? Where was I, I mean me? The person who was fun and good at snowboarding was just a whisper compared to the bah humbug who was a much, much louder voice. I've been pregnant or nursing for the last 3 years so I haven't gone much. So, I got up and kept going. I was better than Jamin at this I taught him how to snowboard and right now it was him teaching me. I had to go my own way for a while until I remembered what I was doing but I came back. Soon enough I was flying down the mountain and loving it! I forgot how much fun snowboarding was. Like, I remember telling myself I liked it but at this moment I can still feel how much I like it. Mammoth was great! The day was sunny and beautiful. The snow was great and it was not crowded. We even parked really close to the lift which made it easy to get stuff or put stuff away. I loved it! The eight hours of driving was worth it after a day like that. I really needed it, just to see Me again. I miss me sometimes.

Holiday Cheer

2009-12-16T14:35:00.001-08:00

This holiday season has just been too much fun and has gone by way too fast. We have really gotten into the spirit this year. Zoe is super excited about everything so it makes an already fun holiday for me even better. It's been fun decorating the house and enjoying all of the festivities like gingerbread houses, santa visits and decorating the Christmas tree. Jamin also put lights on the outside of the house which look fabulous. This is our first year of being able to put lights up and I'm just giddy about it. We also had carolers stop by, what? So great. I'd like to wish you all a merry Christmas, happy holidays, and happy new year!

Trick or Treat?

2009-11-04T06:47:00.000-08:00

I love the Fall! It's so much fun with these little ones. We took the kids to the pumpkin patch by Westminster mall. It was great for pictures and Jude was introduced to a new hero: Batman. Poor little guy is surrounded by princesses it was like he finally found the mother ship or something. Jamin and Zoe carved the pumpkin for Family Night and I think it turned out pretty good. We went to our ward trunk or treat to do a test run for Halloween the week before. Jamin's work had a kid party during the week that had a bounce house and that's really all Zoe needed, but there was face painting and cookie decorating too. On Halloween we typically would go to Mains st. so we stopped by but to my disappointment the bounce houses were lacking and there was no petting Zoo. Stores were giving out candy though. I was so impressed that Jude kept his costume on. He actually like having it on. While on Main st. 2 people seriously stopped me and asked if the could take pictures of Jude or with him. Funny, huh? I was curious to see how trick or treating went in our new neighborhood. Much to my delight it was great! Kids were out knocking on doors and houses were ready to offer them candy with warm smiles. Zoe got really good at it too. She was a little skeptical her first few houses but once we caught up with some other trick or treaters she fell in line and was at the front knocking and yelling,"trick or treat!" Jude was a trooper. We eventually gave him a sucker to help him endure all the trick or treating. Another fun time was had. Now what to do with all of the candy....?

Halloween Time

2009-11-04T06:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary!

2009-11-01T08:33:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning to find this on our table. What a great surprise! It hit the spot on the "awesome things my husband does" scale. Thank you Jamin. I love you! Happy 6th year anniversary!

House Update

2009-10-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

before

after

Here is what our house looks like today. What a big difference from when we bought. We have painted it ourselves with a lot of help from family but I think we did a pretty good job. Now we just need some plants. I'm still trying to figure out what those will be though. Any landscapers out there have any ideas? We were thinking tropical but aren't really sure what will work best in the space or against the wood siding. To be continued...

He's 1!

2009-10-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Our little Jude is a year old!! Let me tell you, it went by so fast! He's been walking for a few weeks now and he's 1! What happened to my little baby? How did this go by so fast? Zoe's first year wasn't nearly this fast or painless. He is such a sweet little guy! I just want to eat him up. I want it to slow down. I want to play with him on the floor more and have those moments when I had to feed him in the early morning. Those intimate moments that begin the relationship between mother and child are so precious. I must say, I don't miss the no sleep part. To be frank, it makes me slightly insane. I'm glad to be feeling like myself again. Having done a 1st birthday party before I wasn't up for all of the hoopla and potential drama. We had a little family party at my parents house that he shared with his cousin because their birthdays are 4 days apart (who's 14). It was perfect and their are plenty of pictures for him to look at to show that we did something. Currently he is walking pretty fast to keep up with his sister. He doesn't say much except "mama" when he is really hungry. He saw his first airplane in the sky 2 days ago and went,"whoa!". He will play by himself or with Zoe. He is a picky eater and will quickly spit out food he doesn't like. If he wants something he will bring it to me or me to it, he's pretty cute. I think I''ll keep him.

Friends to creatures great and small

2009-09-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

I can't ever remember the day anymore but some day not too long ago we decided it would be fun to feed the squirrels or at least go look at them. There is a long patch of grass by our house that is home to many squirrels and we told Zoe we would take her to see them. My experience with squirrels has been with the timid ones. I have to say I was a little scared and feared that one might quickly scamper up my arm and perch itself on my shoulder. These squirrels were psycho and more aggressive than I've ever seen one be! As we raced away on our bikes I seriously looked behind me to see if we were being chased. Maybe it's evolution? Kind of like teenage girls?

2009-09-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

I am now at a respectable age where people don't ask how old a girl is, they just wish her a happy birthday. Disneyland is free on your birthday and if you already have a pass you get a $72 gift card to spend on merchandise. So, really I went to Disneyland and got a free Billabong jacket. Thank you Walt Disney, it was just what I wanted. We spent a long day there it was a sweaty lot of fun. As we were leaving I remembered to take out the camera and that's what we got.

D.I.Y.

2009-09-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

It's Monday morning Jamin has taken the next two days off to help celebrate my birthday and I'm thinking,"finally some help with the kids". Jamin is thinking,"why don't I replace that faucet this morning, it'll only take an hour". So, with that, I am already annoyed. Jude has been sick all week so we have been home bound with a crying baby (no offense Jude). It's apart of life, it happens but my light at the end of the tunnel was the next couple of days that I'd have Jamin home. So an hour turned into like six hours and I think five Home Depot trips and the new faucet was not fitting properly. I was stuck at home again with grumpy kids and a grumpy husband from a do-it-yourself project gone wrong. I was not having a good day and could not foresee myself feeling better anytime soon. I WAS WRONG! Jamin eventually got the faucet figured out. When I saw it working I got excited for my gorgeous new functional faucet. I was so proud of Jamin for figuring it out too! He and some guys at Home Depot collaborated on the project and he did it.

Part II "I'm 3 years old!"

2009-08-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

Zoe loves birthday parties. She has been talking about her birthday for the last 6 months. For her bedtime stories after a book or two I tell her one non-book made up story. She usually requests her birthday story where she can add her input, like, " and Scooby-Doo was there with ice cream cones and sprinkles". Because we had been talking about it constantly I had a lot to live up to. I must say it turned out to be a great day. Being 3 has never been so good. We started out with a Tinker Bell party where Zoe got to wear her new Tinker Bell outfit from Grandma and all of her friends came over, good right? There was tiara decorating, necklace making, and cup cake decorating where you could put on as many sprinkles you like. There were balloons and presents. This could have been the perfect day with just this that ended some time after 1pm. Well we just kept the party going. We had a lot of family in town but I really wanted her to have a kid party so some of the family went to the beach and we celebrate later with a bbq. We all have to eat anyway and it made room for Zoe's friends in the morning. Zoe did a costume change into yet another Princess type dress she got for her Birthday and was amazed when she got a Scooby-Doo cake. Why aren't store bought cakes good? I didn't want to eat more than a bite. No matter, the point was it had Scooby-Doo on it and I didn't feel up to decorating one myself. I did the Elmo head last year and it took a while but the Scooby mold was way more complex and I didn't have the time. Zoe was just beside herself all day. Third birthdays are meant to be enjoyed where there imaginations are just developing and the world is a magical wonderland. While it's this easy to please a child, Party On! Unfortunately, the over indulgence will end when the cost of amusement goes up. Sorry Zoe, in advance for no Super Sweet Sixteen party. It's for your own good.

Part I "I"m 3!"

2009-08-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

Putting in the lawn

2009-08-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

Summer has swept us away. So much to blog about so little time. I am going to document in the right order. We have since painted the front of the house but haven't finished the trim so that is for later. Here is a long awaited update on the house. There was no grass in the backyard and the front yard was weed in infested so we killed it and put in new grass. When I say "we" I mean Jamin. He put days of work into preparing this yard to have sod lay on it. He rota tilled the back and front yard, added top soil, and rolled it. We had my dad and nephews drive down to help lay the sod but as we began our process one saturday morning the same men who trimmed our trees happened by and offered to lay our sod for a couple hundred dollars so we went to the beach instead. A proud moment for us when a few weeks later we actually got to mow the lawn. I'm sure we wont always be excited to do that. Most of the plants were taken out of the front yard so it looks quite different from when we moved in. The front door is new too.

Precious Moments

2009-08-17T15:27:00.000-07:00

It was one of those days I was really tired so I asked Jamin to watch the kids while I took a nap. The nap was amazing! Thanks Jamin! What was even better was finding these two cuddling on the couch when I got up. It was just one shot too. The darn camera woke Jamin up, sorry about that. My cup runneth over. I have so much to be thankful for especially for my sweet little family.

We love the Farmer's Market

2009-07-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

Zoe made it into the the OC register for being a prominent sampler at the the farmers market. She is our little celebrity. (She thought she was even before the picture but now there's proof) There is a guy who gives out samples of the BEST balsamic vinegar and dipping oils and Zoe is no fool she just asks for more. I love the farmers market! I have started getting most of my produce from there because not only is it fresh but it is cheaper than the grocery store and somewhat organic(claim no pesticides or other stuff???) There is a new gelato place on Main st. that is unbelievable! Not super cheap but super good and a small is more than enough. Their claim is that they use 2% milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream so it's less fattening than regular ice cream-if that really matters to anyone. Taste is not compromised anyway and you can sample all you like. This last week we had family in town so Zoe was spoiled at the farmers market. There are attractions for kids. So here is what we did: the SharkSlide $5 (way to steep for a little one/she didn't want to go again), the Bounce House $5 (couldn't get her out of it), and a Train Ride $2/pers. I don't know how we bypassed face painting a balloon animals. I normally say no to all of these things because they are kind of a rip off but there was a grandma willing to pay so I wasn't going to stop her. Normally I just walk up and down the street and enjoy being outside and people watching. There are a number of street performers that Zoe likes to watch and a lot of food to sample. You can just get full on sampling everything without spending a dime. One las thing...the strawberries grown locally are amazing! I don't know why I buy them from anywhere else. Another worthy note are the little bunt cake samples. I got the butter rum cake and topped it with strawberries and whipped cream-delicious! I lost the art of haggling but have done it before and think it's worth a shot if you go down there most people only take cash.

Too Cool

2009-07-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

My daughter is something else. She frustrates me sometimes but she makes me laugh most of the time. She is almost 3 and still sucks on a pacifier. There are many mothers out there who are thinking what a horrible idea this is and why did I let it go on this long. The answer is this: I haven't been up for the fight. She is a tense little kid and shows no signs of being prepared to detach herself from her paci. I don't really know what to do. My neighbors told me the attached their child's pacifier to a balloon and let the child send it away with a note. There is NO WAY Zoe would ever be cool with that right now not to mention we have like 6 pacifiers laying around for Jude too so saying good bye to 1 isn't going to work. I've kind of adopted the idea that every child is different and true success as a parent is learning and doing what is best for each child individually. Is is wrong that I haven't taken away her pacifier yet? She is going to need braces anyway, right?

Stuck at home for 4 days

2009-06-16T14:06:00.001-07:00

I am finally getting cabin fever. Today is my 4th day of workers being at my house. I can see why house arrest is a punishment. I am ready for some freedom. Our backyard was an overgrown forest that besides taking up space was harboring way too much insect activity so we finally bit the bullet and hired one of the many tree services that have been stalking our house to clean it up. It is much better. The last 2 days we have been getting a new heater installed and relocated to our attic. On top of that a GE repair guy has come by both days to fix our new stove and then again to come fix what they broke while repairing our new stove. He is coming back again next week. So much for calling the landlord and having him worry about it. Things are actually coming together with the house. It keeps Jamin and I very busy. My little ones are loving the new place. Zoe is having a little bit of a hard time but it could be a combination of things. She closed the bedroom door on Jude's fingers and got yelled at pretty bad.(not my best parenting moment). His fingers were really indented so I rushed him to the ER. He's fine. Plus, she has been ignored a bit because we have been busy unpacking(still). These last few days I have tried to make an effort to be her mother and not someone who just moved into a house with a big to-do list. Jude is loving the crawl space. That's right, he crawls! He has been for a month. One day he started crawling and a few days later he was pulling himself up to a standing position. It was time to lower the crib. Sad for me because his bedding looked so cute but such is life. Anyway, he loved watching the tree guys working in the yard and seriously climbed along the window staring at them for a long time. It was pretty cute. I think I'll take a little nap if Jude will stay asleep long enough for me to squeeze one in.

It's true, I live in a house

2009-06-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it. We are home owners! The process has been exhausting, but you live you learn. I am so grateful that I have this house and no longer am an apartment dweller. We got a bank owned house so it does need some work but who's complaining? At least I don't have to carry my 2 kids, groceries, and laundry up 15 steps. I could go on too. There is an amazing breeze that my apartment lacked. The kitchen...I love it! The drawers pull out. I finally have a nursery. I have always wanted one that didn't double as an office. Oh, and my bedroom doesn't double as an office either, it's just a bedroom. Many day to day things in my life just got easier. I became a complainer living in my apartment. There were about 20 people living with in 20 ft. of my apartment(most of them 10ft.) and I don't think any of them had a job. There were people home making noise all day long and the lack of any breeze made it necessary to have the windows open. Only a mother with a napping baby can appreciate how annoying that is. I am just so NOT annoyed anymore. I have the nicest neighbors who are perfectly quiet. Even still, they live far enough from me that it doesn't matter. Now we just have to figure out how to make our house payment...to be continued(we've only been here 3 weeks).

2009-05-02T19:07:00.000-07:00

You know how some days are exhausting and you spend the whole day moving from one thing on the "to do" list to the next? This was one of those days but I went to put Jude down for a nap and I found Zoe like this. I assure you it wasn't raining in her room. I forgot my list and went about appreciating my sweet little girl. She makes me smile.

I did it by myself!

2009-04-21T21:53:00.000-07:00

This is a statement my 2 1/2 year old says several times a day but this time I am saying it. The pictures below need to be looked at in reverse in order to get the effect I was going for. I did do it by myself. I went on a 2 hour boat ride with my 2 small children and nobody fell over board. As you can see from the first picture that was a miracle. My friend Dawn invited us on a Whale watching trip and although I was worried I wasn't up for the amount of energy required for such outings with my 2 kids I couldn't pass it up. I have always wanted to go whale watching. I would love to go scuba diving and just see one in it's element. Not a killer whale though, a big blue or hump back whale would be great. They are the worlds largest creatures and I am fascinated by them. Anyway, we got to see 2 types of dolphins up close which was fun for the little kids to see. The kids wanted to play a run around the boat and did fairly well for the majority of the trip. When 12pm hit, the little people meter turned to break down mode and that is when I had to just hold a screaming child while I got to see(but not photograph because my hands were full) my first whale. Excluding sea world of course. It was great and totally worth it. Would I do it again? Not with out some extra help.

Whale watching

2009-04-21T21:49:00.001-07:00

Family Pictures II

2009-03-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

Family Photos!! Thanks to Jenny Morphy, our fabulous photographer, we have some great pict's. Thanks again Jenny! It isn't easy taking pictures of little kids and you managed to get some good ones.

I can't believe it. I sometimes forget, just for a split second that I'm not 23 anymore and here I am with 2 kids. It is sort of surreal looking at my very own family photos. I have almost turned into my mother. She sewed matching dresses for her, me and my 3 sisters to take our family photos. I only went as far as having the kids wear the same color. I wonder how Zoe will look back on these pictures. What will her opinion be? Maybe parents have designated "family photos" because as parents, we are not usually in the photos, at least not all of us. It is cool to see. It is a reminder to me that I am living. That I am doing something bigger than myself with my life. It is tougher than I imagined it would be at times but there isn't a day that goes by that I don't smile big.

Family Pictures

2009-03-31T20:57:00.001-07:00

Blue Steel

2009-03-26T08:49:00.000-07:00

Here is my amateur photo shoot with little Jude.

He Rolls

2009-03-02T16:13:00.000-08:00

My little boy rolls over!! I have decided to celebrate his little milestones. We are currently working on getting him to sleep through the night. I was sick last week so out of survival, he cried it out in Zoe's room while she slept on our floor(her favorite spot anyway). I am not quite as anal about his naps as I was with Zoe so we have been out and about this weekend not on schedule so he doesn't have it down yet. We are getting there. I started giving him rice cereal too,
only when he smacks his lips and stares at food I'm eating.

Weather; you fickle friend

2009-02-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

It has been raining for a week! I am not complaining I don't mind the rain since I hardly ever see it. The week before the weather was what can only be termed as "lovely". On such lovely days we like to spend our time outside resulting in the photos above. It took so long for it to get cold this winter that I don't really appreciate the warmth as much as others. I have enjoyed our few wet days. I actually had a "Moment" because of the rain. You know, a moment where you stop and realize how small you really are and how marvelous the earth is. Play group was at my house on one of these rainy days. Four little 2 1/2 year olds were sitting at my table coloring and asking for more raisins when it suddenly started to rain hard. I pulled up the blinds and opened the window. I asked the kids if they could hear the rain. For a moment all four children stood in front of the window completely silent. I'd say, "can you hear that?" and they'd sigh in wonder,"yeah". It was the coolest thing. Maybe you had to be there. Anyway, as long as I'm not boiling hot in my apartment, I consider it a good day.

We LOVE Santa!

2009-01-31T10:01:00.000-08:00

I don't know what this picture says about my parenting skills but I think my kids will appreciate it when they are older. Zoë loved to look at Santa from afar but the minute he spoke to her the love was gone. I thought Jude was a happy little camper when Jamin passed him off to the mall Santa. Strange tradition now that I'm thinking about it. I think he got scared for a minute because of Zoë's protests. I was the lucky parent who ended up in the picture smiling big enough for all three of us. Jamin and I enjoy the holidays. We love the repetition in them. The cookies, music, decorations, trees, Christmas morning. There they are every year like a grandma you love to visit once a year and she waits for you with open arms. We run right into them. The Santa photo has been tacked on to these traditions for the good, the bad, and the ugly.

2009-01-27T16:50:00.000-08:00

I don't know how time has gotten away from me, but it has. The holidays have come and gone(along with my sleep) and I no longer have a newborn. My children are growing up so fast. Zoe is taking a dance class and is starting pre-school. Jude, I am pretty sure weighs 16 lbs. and wears 6-9 months clothes although; he is only 16 weeks. I have completely slacked off on my blogging. Why?, one might ask. Have I been in Europe, Hawaii, away from my home unable to post? The answer is a very truthful, NO. Perhaps mentally though. Sleep deprivation in new mothers I believe is kind of like Madri Gras; one cannot be held accountable for ones action during such times. So I guess the best answer is I have not been myself lately. Women with many children probably laugh at that because they haven't slept in a long time but you have to admit, it is hard at first. What is funny, I just love my little boy who wakes me up at night. He is so sweet. I guess that is what being a mother is. I was thinking about the other day. You know how Shakespeare wrote, "All the worlds a stage". My whole life I have been the lead roll in my own play, but as a mother I am now in the supporting roll in my children's plays. My job is to help their stories be good ones. What a great roll, I think.

2008-12-03T14:36:00.001-08:00

So, we finally joined the many families around here and purchased Disneyland passes. I actually really like Disneyland when it isn't obnoxiously crowded. Our little Zoe loves many Disney movies that she got to memorize while I was sick or on bed rest this year. She gets so excited when she sees a Buzz Lightyear or a Woody doll. There's a lot more where that came from, there is a place so dedicated to these characters she has grown to love I couldn't wait to see how her 2 year old mind would react. We also figured it was something we could do as a family. We seem limited on activities we can all enjoy but Disneyland seemed ideal. I guess that is why it is so busy. To inaugurate our Disneyland pass holder status we decided to spend Thanksgiving day there.

In the morning we had a character breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen. It was pure entertainment. The food was so-so but great for kids. Zoe actually ate food there, it's a miracle. Disney characters walk around the tables giving people the opportunity to take pictures with them. Zoe was in awe. When they got close however; her awe turned to fear.

To "take cover"

Jude wasn't scared

When there wasn't a character to cower from Zoe was wondering where they were and wanted one to come back and visit.

Once inside the park it was a toddlers wonderland. If only her parents would let her run freely would it have been better for her. I think I had more fun watching Zoe than anything. Jude of course was a trooper just hanging out in the car seat or sling. I hate to say it but I buy into the whole Disney magic.

5 Years

2008-11-13T15:24:00.000-08:00

It has seemed impossible to sit down and put this post together. Even now, I have Zoe sitting on my lap. Most days I wake up and before I know it, I'm giving Zoe a bath and getting ready for bed. Jamin and I celebrated 5 years of marriage on the 1st of November. In creating the slide show I realized I didn't own a digital camera until I was married. That was only 5 years ago, how times have changed. Looking back at our past 5 years I have to laugh at what an amazing time we have had. I also can't believe how young we looked and how different our styles have changed. I am reminded of the good, bad, scary, incredible, wonderful times we have had with gratitude. Thanks, Jamin for a wonderful 5 years.

Halloween Festivities

2008-11-04T20:39:00.001-08:00

So we have been celebrating Halloween for a few weeks now. We started off with the Lombardi's first annual Ginger Bread Haunted House Decorating Contest. It was a lot of fun but decorating anything with a 2 year old and black frosting was a little scary. The Jensens won and they actually got a cool prize. The Duncans will be better prepared to bring some competition to the contest next year. Then there was our churches Trunk or Treat. I thought it was a great way to prepare Zoe for real trick or treating. At the beginning she was hesitant but by the end she would walk up all by herself and say "trunk or treat" . We also carved pumpkins for a FHE,aka: family night. We are extremely novice at this, but I think they turned out pretty good. Next year we'll have a better plan for the design. After that was Jamin's work Halloween Party. It's for kids only, they get to trick or treat for candy all around the different desks(it's a huge place), and then there are crafts for the kids. Zoe was totally shy, we'll call it. By the time actual Halloween came around no amount of bribery would get her to put on her costume. We went down town HB. The city closes Main street and the store owners hand out candy. They also provided entertainment including but not limited to a petting zoo (ok, I know that I originally posted "petting Zoe" but come on, I get like 4 hours of sleep each night you can't expect me to be entirely coherent or in complete sentences) and several bounce houses which were all free. It's funny how much fun all of these activities are now that I have a little person who gets excited for them. Even though she didn't wear her costume Zoe was actually brave enough to go in a bounce house and had a great time. I was so proud. She is a bit of a scaredy cat.

2 weeks old!

2008-10-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been a mother of 2 for 2 weeks now and so far so good. Jamin has had paternity leave this whole time so today is my first day on my own. I haven't cried yet so I consider it a success but it is only noon. Adjusting to a second child is nothing like the first. I feel for Zoe though. I think her world has been shaken a bit. She acted out a lot the first couple of days Jude was home but seems to be doing better now. She still likes to poke him in the face and tug on his ears so leaving them alone for a second in the same room is not wise at this point(until he can defend himself anyway).

Jude Carter Duncan; 9 lbs. 13 oz.

2008-10-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

If anyone has ever delivered at Hoag hospital you know how fabulous it is. One of the pictures is our view from the Labor/delivery room. The whole experience would make anyone who lived even 50 years ago in disbelief. In a small way I feel like I cheated nature. I was induced after all on Monday. I had mixed emotions about it having never gone into labor on my own I sort of wanted to experience it. My lack of patience, discomfort, and depression won over and I decided to go ahead and give my body the extra help it needed. Luckily I did because he weighed 9 lbs. 13 oz.(Zoe was late and weighed 8.2) The doctor had to shimmy his shoulders out of me. Seriously my mouth dropped when I was told how big he was. Anyway, I had been having contractions for 5 days prior to being induced so when they hooked me up to the pictocin nothing felt different. In fact the anesthesiologist came in to give me my epidural and said,"you don't look like you're in pain". I wasn't. My nurse recommended I get it because she thought I would go fast as soon as my water broke. I listened to her and she was right. The whole thing went so fast with out all of the sweating and moaning I so often see on A BABY STORY on TLC. The recovery is phenomenally easier than with my first. I wonder why many of us have to go through the total "but kicking" with the first child? Anyway, I am just really grateful and I am able to enjoy this beautiful little/big addition to our family. We decided on naming him Jude Carter Duncan. This name wasn't really in the running my whole pregnancy and at the hospital I really thought he looked like a Wynston( Wyn for short) but Jude won out. So far, I think it fits him and Zoe says his name sooo cute. He was really smashed in me attributing to his bruised face(what do you expect?). So these pictures are maybe more than some people want to see but they are what we have for now.

Jude Carter Duncan

2008-10-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

To induce or not to induce?

2008-10-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

So I am a day over my due date. I am 80% effaced and dilated to a 4. I should have had this baby already. Why won't I go into labor? I really haven't minded it until yesterday. Now I have the patience of a 2 year old so Zoe and I are a great little duo. I got induced with Zoe so I was thinking I wouldn't get induced this time. I don't think I can make it. I am going a little crazy. What should I do?

pumpkins are for sitting on

2008-09-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

We had Zoe sit on few pumpkins to take some pictures of her. When she sees the pumpkins we brought home with us she wants to sit on them too. I have to say, it is our own fault. The last picture she has that look of,"come on guys, sitting on pumpkins is boring". Anyway, it was a fun night and I love how easily she is pleased by things.

Poonkins

2008-09-28T15:38:00.001-07:00

Zoe is a bit of a scaredy cat, so I thought I'd start early preparing her for all of the holiday fun. We got the Target halloween shirt with the black cat to get in the mood and we headed off to the pumpkin patch. Zoe calls them "poonkins". She wanted to pick them up so bad. As we were walking out she grabbed on of the mini pumpkins and would not let it go. For her, a small victory for us $2 for an over priced pumpkin.

Puppy Love

2008-09-19T13:42:00.000-07:00

And they call it puppy love...not really, but how cute are these pictures? I kind of think they look like some famous couple being chased by the paparazzi(in baby land of course). We met the Lombardis and the Kochs for breakfast at Sugar Shack. What a great past time. I love doing it, I've done it for years. I'm sure many times with Adam, Dawn, and Jamin long before any of us were ever married. I think it's funny how a location can hold a place in my heart. It's not like it's gourmet food or anything but, in my mind it's where you go for breakfast. Thankfully Zoe and Jack where entertained there with the jellies and cream packs. Oh, a little update on baby #2: I'm over 38 weeks dilated to about a 3 but still no baby. I feel like I'm disappointing many people by not having him sooner. I really have no control I realized, at least until I demand getting induced. Oct. 1st still might happen for me.

So, I have cravings

2008-09-12T16:07:00.000-07:00

Unlike my first pregnancy, this baby is very particular about what I eat. Luckily for me, the cravings have balanced themselves out. I have sat down to dinner to something I would normally love and there was just no way another bite was entering my mouth. On the flip side, I want what I want and I do go out of my way to get it. This cheesecake is an example of a craving. I really wanted it. I had extra cream at the house so I thought, "I will have this desert". I couldn't even find the entire recipe that I got from an old roommate. As I lay in bed, it came to me. It was a midnight miracle. I didn't eat the whole thing. My dinner group benefitted from this craving. Unfortunately, they have also been tortured by my cravings.

Another Year older

2008-09-12T16:00:00.000-07:00

Zoe helped me open my birthday presents. So, I'm older and not that much wiser. Luckily I have a husband who is pretty good at celebrating holidays and birthdays. It was a good day. We just went to the beach, which is one of our favorite activities, got breakfast at Jamba juice and had La Creperie in Belmont shores. I can't seem to get enough of that place. We usually use birthdays as an excuse to eat fancy ie:expensive but I just wanted those yummy crepes.

Our big girl

2008-09-12T15:15:00.000-07:00

Zoe is more and more fun to hang out with. I love that she will say, " cheese" for the camera. Then of course, she wants to look at it. Using a video camera has been difficult lately because I turn the LCD screen around and she just stares at herself and giggles. I just can't believe how grown up she is becoming. We can have conversations now, it's amazing! Too bad that don't show up like this.

36 weeks

2008-09-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

People always say that every pregnancy is different. I didn't really believe it until now. I just figured that things would go similarly to my first pregnancy which was fairly easy and virtually painless(until after). Lately I have been having cramps and contractions that wake me up at night. They of course go away by morning. I had a doctors appt. yesterday and he said that I am dilated to a 2 and am 50% effaced. He thinks I'll go early. I decided to look on line to see what others had gone through in similar conditions. Many blogs had women complaining because they were at this stage for 3 weeks. Not what I want to hear. Really, the only problem is that I would like to sleep and be comfortable otherwise Oct. 1st is a much more acceptable date for me. Isn't that funny? I actually care what date he arrives on. I like Oct. 1st. Zoe was born on Aug.1st, my birthday is Sept. 1st, our anniversary is on Nov.1st. How easy it would be to stay organized in the important event category? Anyway, that's just my update it is interestingly insignificant. I could have this baby anytime now or I could have him in 4 weeks. This diagnosis does not satisfy my need to know everything.

Tagged

2008-08-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

My 3 joys:
-my family
-the beach
-good food

My 3 fears:
-anything happening bad to my children born and unborn
-anything happening to Jamin
-cancer

My 3 current obsessions:
-going into labor
-finding a new place to live
-Le Creperie in belmont shores

3 Surprising facts:
-I'm psychic
-vivid imagination(refer to above)
-I suck at most video games but the Wii

I tag:

Stephanie

Dawn

Emily

Summer where have you gone?

2008-08-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

I seriously blinked and summer is almost over. I don't even know what I did this summer. Luckily I do have a few pictures to remind me. We spent a lot of time at the beach this year. Now that Zoe can appreciate sand and buckets a little better I really have enjoyed a less hands on form of entertaining my child. Looking back now at the summer, we actually had a lot of fun. We played a lot with family and friends. I love where I live for the beach. We live close enough to walk to the ocean and shops. It will be hard to give it up someday soon when we will get into house of our own or simply move into a bigger place. I must say I am looking forward to not being so close to my neighbors but again I digress. I say this because I have had a few total melt downs this summer because of my apartment and car and job and body and......you get the idea. So, even though this summer has had it's melt downs I have some great memories as well. Jamin has been able to spend a lot of time with me and Zoe which was the complete opposite last summer. I actually really like hanging out with my husband which is a nice reminder. We also scored this really cool Woody wagon at a yard sale that has been great for transporting all of the stuff (including mom and baby) to the beach. It rides on the sand great. Much better than tugging furiously at the jogging stroller.

2008-08-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

2008-08-24T20:23:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun

2008-08-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

The Birthday Party!

2008-08-19T14:20:00.001-07:00

Last year my family made up Zoe's birthday party along with one or two friends. Most of our friends were out of town. We had such a great time with family that we thought we'd do it again. This time we invited even more family. Although I love all of our family, I don't know that I will do it that way again. Too much drama for a bunch of adults to dish out for a 2 year olds birthday. You'd think it was their party. Anyway, I had a great time regardless and more importantly, Zoe had a great time. She loved having all of her cousins there and her friends too. It seemed like just as I was relaxing and enjoying the party it was over. I was on bed rest so I had a lot of help from our family on both sides. Thanks to the family that came especially those who traveled far and thanks to the friends who came too. We had a blast.

Zoe is 2 years old!

2008-08-19T14:17:00.001-07:00

Famous Husband

2008-08-13T20:18:00.001-07:00

This ad is a little misleading. Although Jamin has put his name in some of his commercials in a not so obvious place, he did not have a hand in this particular ad. He works for Apple on itouch. The guys who did this commercial just used his name, we aren't sure why maybe because he has an unusual name. Regardless, I think it's pretty cool.

Down for the count

2008-07-30T22:08:00.000-07:00

For the last couple of weeks I have been on bed rest. While Zoe was spending some quality time with my mom and I was enjoying some alone time I had a somewhat routine ultrasound appointment. At 20 wks my placenta was a little low so we did a "just in case" ultrasound at 28 wks. In my mind this was just a fun trip to see my baby. The ultrasound tech said the placenta had grown higher into a safe position but by the way your cervix is a little short, let me get the doctor. Huh? 2 weeks of strict bed rest was more difficult and depressing than I had expected. Luckily my family has been a great help with Zoe so I could stay down. At least the 2 wks helped and now I am on "you can take care of your child but that's all" bed rest.

The positive side of things is that I actually feel better. I have evidently inherited some varicose veins on my right leg that actually hurt worse and look worse as days go by. My first pregnancy seemed so much easier. I felt fine with the first one other than mental stress of the unknown. I'd rather have that any day than physical pain.

Did I mention that Zoe had a bladder infection, the flu, and constipation during all of this? One right after the other. Are you kidding me?

Well I am officially done with work as a result of my baby trying to exit or enter too early depending on the context. I imagined the event differently in my mind. Instead of the party that I saw in my mind with the "na na na na, na na na na, Hey hey hey, good bye" song cheering in my head on my last day ,my abrupt exit has left me stunned and actually feeling regret. Weird huh? Anyway, sorry I have slacked on my blogging. I love to read others blogs and get disappointed when people don't update them often. Not that anything I ever post is terribly interesting but I tend to be hypocritical in blogging.

thankful

2008-07-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

We love to play at the park. This day, Jamin played pretty hard with zoe. She is so much fun to watch. Zoe has the best laugh. Although she inherited some of her fathers fastidiousness, she is pretty easy. I feel lucky to have her.

Channel Islands with the Family

2008-07-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

This trip happened a month ago but I have been slacking at my blogging lately. This is just evidence that we are still having fun. Here is Zoe with her favorite cousin, Shiann. The boys played in the freezing water for hours. I sat on the beach fully clothed. Zoe can't get enough of the water. She would run in if I didn't hold her back. Lucky for us, there is spf 50 sunblock which has worked out nicely to protect our child's extremely white skin.

not so sure about

2008-06-02T13:43:00.000-07:00

I finally got a new camera for mother's day! I love it! Thanks Jamin. My little Zoe is such a crack up to watch. This was her first bounce house experience and we had to practically force her inside. She couldn't wait to get out. What is ironic, since then she runs to bounce houses and wants to climb inside. Unfortunately for her they have either been filled with crazy 6-10 year old boys who would kill her or they cost $5. Mommy doesn't want to waste $5 on a child who wouldn't stay in it longer than 30 seconds. Is that bad parenting?

Bounce House

2008-06-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

It's Official!

2008-05-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

We are having a boy! This time, the tech said it was 100%. I wasn't sure how appropriate posting the evidence on the ultrasound was so I opted for the profile shot instead. We were happy with what ever the sex was we of course, we wanted a healthy baby. They said, so far all is well. You know how people always say they don't care what the sex is but you know they aren't telling you the truth? It's bad karma to wish for a certain sex I think. I am happy to be having a boy but I must admit I was a little more nervous about a boy than a girl. I thought I'd have all girls for some weird reason. I know girls. I am one. I already have one and all the stuff that goes along with her, but a boy...not so much. Jamin was more excited that it was a boy than I think he lets on. I'm glad he'll have someone to be a boy with. Our next step is to find a name for this kid. This task seemed so much easier when I was nine.

Weekend in Nor Cal

2008-04-14T20:48:00.001-07:00

Can you believe the roller rink had skates that fit Zoe? She was so excited to get out on there and skate with her cousin Bailey. She sat patiently while I laced up the heavy shoes and she even rolled a little bit once she was out on the floor. Zoe soon discovered that she didn't feel safe and secure in the skates and wanted me to hold her instead. She still looked so adorable. I was so proud of her for even trying, c'mon she's 1 1/2. Little, or should I say big Bailey turned 8 and his mom had a wonderful party at a skating rink-groovy fun!

We had a great time up in menlo park. We went to Happy Hollow which is actually in San jose. It is perfect for toddler/preschool aged kids. Zoe went nuts. She acted like such a big girl. We were worried she wouldn't ride anything or would be scared if we weren't holding her hand or something but as you can see from the photos, clearly not the case. She wanted to be apart of the fun. If the other kids were screaming and laughing so was she. There was also a little zoo. For the price you can't beat the place. It was a good day. We ended the day at Jamin's cousins where the warm weather permitted lounging by and in the pool. Swim class finally paid off because Zoe was jumping in the pool. I swear, she thought she could actually swim if we'd just let her go. Of course, I got the flu while we were gone and spent a day in a hotel. Are you kidding me? Sick again! I just got tested and I don't have AIDS but seriously what is going on with my immune system? It was still a fun trip regardless.

My Eggo is Prego

2008-03-28T21:06:00.000-07:00

If anyone has seen Juno, and you've been pregnant don't you think they left out some very important consequences of being pregnant? The movie did mention heartburn but said nothing of the hormonal trauma, the weird veins that pop out on your body, did I mention the crying? Am I alone in this? I did enjoy Juno but thought it was misleading to any teenage girl thinking being pregnant and giving the child away isn't really that hard. It would be hard. I think anyone who has actually gone through it could attest to that fact. The hormones involved alone make a lot crazy. Not to mention the disrepair your body is in afterward. Anyway, I digress. There is good news especially for me. I am either in or am about to start my second trimester. Being pregnant never seems real for me until I see it. I hadn't heard this baby's heartbeat yet so today was a big day. I think it is innate for a mother to worry but I was verclemnt(sp?) to see my little one has a heartbeat and all of it's limbs. The baby measured 13 weeks and 3 days which is a week off from what we thought it was. It's up to my doctor to determine what my due date is but that's not until next week. There is a 60% chance of accuracy on determining the gender at this stage. The ultrasound tech determined it was a boy. 60% is pretty close to 50% which is what it is anyway right? So, I think I'll wait until I'm a little farther along for conformation. I'm not dying to know yet anyway, but I will be...

Happy Easter!

2008-03-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

We went to my parents house for Easter so Zoë could hunt Easter eggs. She was so fun to watch. She would find an egg and slam-dunk it into the basket. The eggs would make this "oh no" cracking sound. It was funny. She discovered that some of the eggs had candy in them. There is a picture of her breaking into one of the hard boiled eggs in search of chocolate. I am amazed at how opinionated she is for such a little thing. She doesn't like to get her feet dirty so in order to get to some of the eggs she would only walk on the cement flower bed borders. I'm sure there is an official name for that but I don't know it. We went to church with my mom and I tried to get into the true spirit of Easter however my almost 20 month old daughter was trying to tell me she was the boss and she wanted to run around and make a lot of noise. She's also drooling like crazy. Could she be getting her 2nd year molars already?

Easter Fun

2008-03-25T20:47:00.000-07:00

She's such a girl

2008-03-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

My little girl loves shoes! I find it funny that she is attracted to one of the more uncomfortable pairs of shoes. It is innate. We just come that way I guess. I was in the kitchen when she walked in wearing my high heels and pushing her dolly in the stroller. Just like mommy? I assure you I've never pushed her in a stroller wearing anything buy flip flops or tennis shoes. Regardless of the undertones of this scenario I still thought she looked adorable and had to share it.

A Boy and His Kite

2008-03-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love living so close to the beach! I don't take for granted the area I live. We love walking down to the pier or flying a kite at the beach. This was one of those beautiful warm days where the wind was just perfect for flying a kite. Jamin was so excited to get this kite to work it was sort of adorable. Our little Zoe was unusually brave too. She ran back and forth as the tide washed in and touched her toes. She loves a puddle to splash in so this was heaven to her. She is also amazed with anything in the sky be it airplane or kite so this day will go down in history as a good day. I am filled with gratitude for being able to have them.

2008-03-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

I had a rare day when Zoe and I got to hang out with some of my girlfriends and their kids. Sarah and Chelsey were in town visiting. It was fun hanging out and having adult conversations. It was also nice because the kids entertained each other. While Sarah was in town I was more social than I've been in a long time. My problem is I just need to make more of an effort. Anyway, it was a fun day.

Busy, busy Zoë.

2008-02-03T19:24:00.000-08:00

So When it rains it pours when it comes to blogging. This time I can thank Jamin. He decided to spend his weekend creating this little movie. It is a few minutes long so be prepared but hopefully it makes you at least crack a smile. Zoe is cracking me up lately(amongst driving me crazy). She is saying "no" with a vengeance. She has these conversations with herself where she points to one thing after another questioning,"this?" and answering herself,"no". We are taking a swim class that she is excited to get to and more excited to leave. She doesn't like to do any of the activities in class. She shakes her head to me and says,"mama, no." What can ya do? I don't want to traumatize the child. We are just taking it one splash at a time.

Winter of discontent

2008-02-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

I have been slacking on my blogging for a while. I am comforted to know that anyone actually reads my blog to notice. Thanks Em.:) Seriously, someone in my household has been sick since Dec. 1st. This whole month of January I have gotten cold after cold. I finally went to the doctor and got antibiotics(always a last resort for me) and now I'm feeling much better. I thought I was doing a good job with my Zicam, Airborne, and Zinc lozenges but not this time. Zoe shortly after got sick. Really sick. She had a high fever and wasn't breathing well. She is now on a nebulizer(sp?) Why would I know how to spell that? Anyway, She is breathing better now but is generally unpleasant to be around. I suppose it's because she finally has the energy to complain. Because of our many illnesses I have fallen into a rut of bad parenting. When I'm sick I turn the tv on and let Zoe watch her shows for obvious reasons, I want to rest. When she is sick I turn the tv on so she will rest. According to an article in Time magazine tv is bad for babies brain development and might be the cause of A.D.D. So by trying to make it through the sick winter of my discontent I may be responsible for giving my child A.D.D. Can it be said that illness causes A.D.D.? If all weren't sick we wouldn't have watched so much tv in the first place. Another excuse I have for not blogging is my lack of good photos to add to the blog. I am coveting big time having a fancy camera. I have one but it is 35mm. The technology just wasn't around when I splurged loads of money on things I really don't need. My next motivation for saving is for a car, not to mention a house now that the market is finally going down.

Tagged Husbands style

2008-01-09T12:54:00.001-08:00

I've never responded to being Tagged before but what the heck. I'm tagging all those on my friends list. You know you can do it. It doesn't take that long.

What is his name? Jamin Aaron(Alexander) Duncan. He swears he has 2 middle names. I don't see 2 on his drivers license.
How long have you been together? Married for 4 years and 2 months
How long did you date? 8 months before we were married
How old his he? 30
Who eats more? Jamin...he'd never stop if his plate never emptied
Who said I love you first? He did.
Who is taller? Jamin, about 6 ft., I'm shrinking I used to be 5'9 now I'm a little over 5'8
Who can sing better? I do, but he actually has a good voice if he put effort into it.
Who is smarter? That is debatable. He is very smart and he knows a lot about things I don't know about. I can say the same for him although he probably doesn't value some of the things I have a lot of knowledge about.
Who does the laundry? Me.
Who pays the bills? since I had Zoe, Jamin pays the bills
Who sleeps on the right side? I do.
Who mows the lawn? Do I have a lawn? Do I have a mower? Nope.
Who cooks dinner? Me, Stephanie, Nora, and Dawn. Never Jamin. He made me pancakes once on our honeymoon.
Who drives? Jamin
Who is more stubborn? Jamin. OCD
Who kissed who first? That's debatable! And a bit of a long story...for another day!
Who asked who out first? He actually asked me out a year before we started dating. When we got together it was a game. I think Andrea made us go out
Who proposed? He did.
Who has more friends? I do.
Who is more sensitive? I am.
Who has more siblings? Jamin, he has 4, I have 3.
Who wears the pants? Basically he wears the pants. He has way stronger feelings about most things than I do, but I still love you Jamin!

Merry Christmas

2007-12-31T11:40:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas in Edmonds, Washington outside Seattle. The plane ride there was uneventful other than we were stuck in the very last row(the ones that don't recline) with a toddler. We went to dinner in down town on the water called,"Salty's" for Jamin's mother's birthday. It was delicious and the view was amazing. We shopped in the very first Nordstroms. They sold some exclusive Chanel perfume that I totally bought into but practiced self control. Zoë was denied any sort of routine most of the trip which is probably why she slept so poorly at night. We decorated cookies Christmas eve. Christmas morning it snowed. We only bought presents for the kids among the family this year with Jamin's family. I thought it worked out nicely. We had a list of things he wanted so we didn't waste money on something he wouldn't like. The day after Christmas we drove to Leavenworth, a Bavarian town that celebrates Christmas all year long. It is a really cute place. All the buildings have lights on them and there is a little hill for kids to sled down. It was a great time. The next day we went snowboarding at Stevens Pass. Let me just say the snow was amazing. It snowed the entire day which meant POWDER! Snowboarding was soooo fun. It is seriously one of my favorite things to do. Jamin and I were just figuring out how we can do it more often. We need someone to watch our child. The flight home the following day was ridiculous! Our flight was delayed almost 2 hours not because our plane was having tech. difficulty or it wasn't there. Our pilots were late. There was no one to fly the plane but they boarded us anyway(not very fun with a toddler as I'm sure some of you know) we had a layover in LA . We missed our connecting flight because of our delay so my dear sister Dana drove all the way to LAX to pick us up so we didn't have to sit around for another 3 hours for another flight. We still had to pick up our freight of luggage form Orange county but it was so good to be home. It was so good to sleep in my own bed again. I can still remember the days I could sleep anywhere. I miss that girl but not as much as I miss a good nights sleep.

Our first white Christmas

2007-12-31T10:59:00.000-08:00

It snowed on Christmas day!! Our first white Christmas! Although I was ready to get on a play and fly home so I wouldn't have to sleep in the same room with my child the snowfall was a reward from the heavens to make me smile, and it did. Zoë only wanted to be outside with the falling snow. She cried when I finally picked her up to take her inside. She loved the snow! She face planted a few times in it on accident but nothing would deter her from enjoying the snow and it was very cold outside.

Sleepless in Seattle

2007-12-31T10:51:00.000-08:00

This Christmas we went to Jamin's mom's house in Seattle. I like going to Seattle but sharing a room with Zoë is brutal. She never slept through the night the whole week we were there. She would continually wake up after sleeping for maybe an hour. I put her in bed with us and she'd roll around and then sit up and poke me in the nose and say,"nose". One night she wouldn't sleep at all and so I went downstairs and played guitar hero III for a few hours. Lack of sleep is my weakness. I am a bad person when I don't have enough sleep. Needless to say we still had fun even though no sleep was had.

A salute to dinner group

2007-12-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

This past Tues. night Stephanie Jensen had "live" dinner group in honor of Christmas. The decor was beautiful and the food was delicious. Thank you Stephanie for the fun time. Sorry you totally got jipped on the white elephant gift exchange it doesn't seem right with all of the effort you put into the evening. That is to be cont... Anyway, I have a great appreciation for dinner group. Because of these girls and sometimes Adam(yummy last night by the way), my life is a little easier during the week. Thanks so much! I don't know why I don't have more pictures of that night...

Rollin with the Homies

2007-12-20T12:54:00.000-08:00

Jimmy had told Jamin that he was taking some of his associates out on the boat. I wasn't sure I'd know a soul. Lucky for me we associate with many of the same people. The Jensens, the Beutlers, and the Halversons were among the known associates. It was a lot of fun. I always love the boat parade anyway but this year was especially fun. It was also warmer than seeing it from a dock.

Boat Parade

2007-12-20T12:50:00.000-08:00

I don't know how we managed it but we were lucky enough to see the Newport Beach boat parade from Jimmy Kindred's amazing boat. I let Jamin watch Zoe most of the time so I could get in some socializing. Zoe loved the lights on the boats. She waved to all of them as if she were the queen of the whole affair. She would say, "hi" as they passed by. The rest of the time she was either trying to drive the boat or climb up and down the stairs.

Three peas in a pod

2007-12-19T15:46:00.000-08:00

These three little rug rats don't play together too often but it is pretty fun to watch when they do. Chelsey was up from down south for the day so we got together. Zoë tries to take all of the toys from Lucas and climb the stairs constantly. Little Evan who is just crawling just follows them around and is like "mom who?" In fact, all of them are like that until somebody wants something.

Mattress Drama

2007-12-19T15:19:00.003-08:00

I don't know if it is a sign of getting old, but Jamin and I have back problems. I've had them since I started working as a dental hygienist. What we are experiencing now is mattress distress. My cheapy mattress that I've had since before we were married was hard as a rock. I loved it! For whatever reason this summer my love turned to hate. It was unbelievably too hard. I would not be able to sleep through the night and by morning I'd have a headache. I was so troubled because I went on a 2 week cruise and never woke up once during the night. I also slept through the night at a Sheraton once. I know I sound like an infant but seriously how annoying is it to get a few times a night? The fact that on some other beds I didn't wake up proved that it wasn't me but perhaps something else...? Mattress? Tossing and turning spouse? Anyway, if anyone has ever gone mattress shopping you know what a joke it is. All of the mattresses are ridiculously over priced and unfortunately there really is no 1 perfect mattress. The process of finding what mattress is right for you is a long an painful process better accomplished without a toddler in tow. Our first replacement mattress we bought at Macy's. They had 2 years 0% fin. so we thought that was the place to go. We were in so much pain that we were willing to spend any amount to feel better. We bought a top of the line Simmons Beauty Rest. It has 800 coils and tons of latex(which is all the craze now supposedly longer lasting than memory foam). What we liked most about the Simmons is the fact that the motion transfer is absorbed by all of the coils. Unfortunately, the mattress with all of it's technology did not heal my headaches or help me stop waking up at night. Because it didn't make me feel better there was no justification in the price so luckily for us Macy's has a return policy, so back it went. Our next stop was at Leed's matterss. We found a mattress half the price of the first mattress. I picked out the softest mattress there and slept headache free for 60 nights. The down side to the mattress is my body impression was already engraved in the mattress. Worst than that, Jamin practically sunk into the mattress. He said it was like laying in a hamik(sp?). Leed's doesn't let you return your matterss but you can exchange it with a 20% restocking fee. So back again to pick out another matterss. 5 hours later we selected another Simmons but a lower level or tiered model half the price of the first matterss we picked out. Luckily for us Efrin, the store manager just did a straight trade without a restocking fee. Thank you Efrin! At long last we have found our perfect mattress! Zoë has been sick these last weeks and has been waking up in the night so I haven't truly experienced a good nights sleep yet, but it feels great and I'm not waking up on my own. Hooray!!!

Faulkner Sisters

2007-12-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

This is a rare photo of my sisters. Dana makes us get together for a picture when we are all together. We all hem and haw when she makes us do it but appreciative after the fact.

Crazy in Bakersfield

2007-12-05T13:16:00.000-08:00

Zoë loved being at her Grandma and Grandpa's house. There are so many animals for her to play with. Actually she just points at them. She doesn't like to sleep there, she just wants to get up and see the "dogga", a word she shouts with all of the excitement she can muster. She also has many cousins who fight over who gets to hold her. Which is a nice break for me.

Memory loss

2007-12-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

I can't get the other pictures to upload at the moment. Instead, I am going to vent about my memory loss! Why can't I remember anything? I went to Target for 3 things. I left with more than 3 things but they didn't have 1 of the 3 things I went there for, a pastry sifter. Where am a supposed to find one of those if not Target? I managed to get shortening but forgot the deodorant. So I left Target with 1 thing I actually went there for and then some. Those who have infants/toddlers know how difficult just getting into the car can be so now I'm faced with the dilemma....do I make a special trip for just 1 thing? I don't really have it in me.