Splendid Wren

some fun in all that...

2010-05-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

Since my posts have been a bit melancholy, I wanted to throw in a little of that trivial, shallow, fleeting, beautiful stuff we all like. And some things I am looking forward to. I love May because that means Mommies are loved all across the world. It means that peonies are in bloom. It means that I can keep the windows open all of the time. It means that peaches are forming on the trees. Here are a months worth of favorites:

Free farm tours at Capay Organic - We took a little tractor ride, picked asparagus and snap peas, picked a lovely bouquet of sweet peas for mother's day, and picnicked on their lawn while listening to a happy country/blue grass band

My own little backyard garden. I just purchased some seed potatoes to add, both Yukon Gold and Fingerling, and will be planting them probably tonight or tomorrow. Also picked up some San Marzano tomato seeds and some acorn squash seeds that I am hoping to add next week.

My "Message-in-a-Cookie Cutter" from Williams-Sonoma should arrive any day now. I am too excited about all of the little messages I will be putting in cookies to celebrate Luciana's first birthday.

I was thinking these would be lovely for her party too

these flowers...

maybe one day, this will be mine

and this

I wonder if I can make this

I love the beauty in her blog... and I am now desperately seeking Sakura

I am looking forward to the beauty of the redwoods and our ladies retreat.

I am going to make this as soon as I can get my hands on some leeks.

I would love to have a portrait of Evelina's Honeybun and Luciana's Lulu like these

I can't believe this was only $109.00

Still loving Anna Maria's fabric...what I would give to have just a couple yards

and that is all I have time for for now... I hope you enjoyed them as much as I do!

over it

2010-04-15T15:01:00.000-07:00

I do not know why certain hurts linger. I have told myself so many time to "get over it!" but I am still not over it. Hurts that happened so long ago, hurts by people who I'm sure never think about me, hurts that for some ridiculous reason will not die. I have given them over to the Lord and prayed through them. I have blessed the other person from the depth of my heart. I just can not shake it.

Maybe I am just that pathetic, that co-dependent and need to get a life. Nope, that can't be it. I have a great life with great friends. I do not think any of said friends would describe me as co-dependent. I just want to be over it... NOW!

I think it comes out of my historical lack of family. I treasure family and though I do not have a large one nor have I had a very healthy family in my past, it is so important to me. I now have the most incredible growing little family and I am so blessed to be a part of it. The intimacy and longevity one can expect with a family relationship is amazing. I have a few friends that either I or God has elevated to the level of family in my life and look forward to our lives together. And I think the feeling is mutual. These relationships are not burdensome or filled with expectations that can never be met but rather enjoyment of eachother's company, sharing in life, and loving one another through the good times and bad. And, on my part at least, these relationships will be nurtured from decade to decade.

I think that these woundings come from making statements about being family in anticipation of a great friendship before that level of intimacy has actually been reached. I am not going to lay blame on others because I know I have been quick to make relational commitments too. I have asked myself why these friendships never materialized and where, once being "family", we are estranged. I guess that is one of the reasons I struggle to move on - there is just no closure. I must choose to continue to bless. I must choose to take these thoughts captive even though I may never understand. I will no longer be vexed by these relationships. I will say a prayer of love for those people who once were my friends and then quickly shift my thoughts to how I might add to the the friends I do have.

Photo Credit Anna Gutermuth, Flickr

burdens...

2010-04-01T15:28:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/people/randysonofrobert/

I have been reading "Having a Mary Spirit" by Joanna Weaver for the bible study group I recently joined. I joined the group as they were starting chapter 9 so I have been reading to catch up over the past couple weeks. I read chapter 6, Dying to Live, today and found that while I didn't think I struggled with trusting God, he is revealing to me areas in which I do not completely trust Him.

Joanna shared something in this chapter that encouraged her from Hannah Whitall Smith. Ms. Smith said in her book, "Christian's Secrets to a Happy Life", "Some Christians are like a man who was carrying a heavy load down a country road. The driver of a passing wagon offered him a ride, and he joyfully accepted. Even after climbing aboard, he left his pack on his shoulders. He rode along still hunched over under his heavy load. 'Why do you not lay down your burden?' the driver asked. 'Oh, I feel that it is almost too much to ask you to carry me', said the man. 'I could not think of letting you carry my burden too!'" I find that while I joyfully accept Jesus' offer to carry my burdens, I do it on my own terms.

If any of you have spent time with me, you know I am chronic multi-tasker. If you have only spent time with me a few times or if we have had deep and meaningful conversation, you might not have seen it. But if you ever come over and just hang for a while, you will see what I mean. I will take you with me to run errands, chat way with you while I do dishes, laugh and listen while I make dinner or bake something. I am so happy to just spend time and live life together. It makes chores so much more fun to have a friend to hang with while I am doing them. It really makes them seem fun and not like chores at all. And if you ask to help, I don't let you do anything : )

God revealed to me that this is how I treat His offer to carry my burdens. I ask Him to come over and hang with me while I carry them. I am joyful and have a great time with Him. It really makes the burden not seem like a burden at all and, in fact, I am almost glad for the burden so that I have an opportunity to talk and laugh with Him. But when I am no longer spending time with Him, the burden is still there. I do not acknowledge it though because I supposedly gave it to him. It is as if it does not exist any longer...almost.

It is like taking a walk with my kids... both girls are in the stroller. We are having a great time. And then our steady little walk turns sharply into an uphill adventure. As if 50 pounds of girl is not enough I have the weight of the stroller. And my purse underneath the stroller. It is heavy but unusually so. Why is it so heavy? I almost can't push it uphill? Then I notice the tires are flat. I did not acknowledge the flat tires because they were not so bad on the straightaway. But when things got steeper, it was almost unmovable.

I think I must be in some real denial... He is so gentle to remind me. I do realize now that there must be a burden on me because I feel tired, even after resting. I feel refreshed in worship and renewed in His presence, but once back home and in the daily grind, I feel worn. After spending time with Him and in His loving affirmation, I still feel the desire to be liked by others.

I am going to spend some time over the next few days to find out what I am carrying around. I am going to dig through my purse and pull out whatever is weighing me down. Things I let Him lighten me for a while just by being with Him but not really giving it to Him. Maybe there is more than half eaten bananas and dirty diapers in there... we'll see...

Happy Weekend...

2010-03-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Abby Sharp

This week seemed to scream by. I was looking forward to sharing some things I have had on my mind but, alas, the weekend has come and there are new adventures to be had. There is always next week... good intentions, good intentions, everyone.

Right now I am staring at laundry that needs putting away and dishes that need washing, and then putting away. But, these blank walls and verily undecorated house of mine is calling out, "Do something". I have waited to do much with my home because I have very large decor from my old home and also, because my tastes have tweaked a bit. I still like the rustic, Tuscan decor but I can not escape all of the color that is invading my style. It makes me feel as if I have deprived myself of color for a very long time and have not been true to my inner designer that wants a lovely blend of colors spread throughout my humble little cottage. While I have good intentions, People, the house still goes neglected. I often wonder about those of you who have immaculate homes... and kids... do you ever sleep? I guess that is my problem... I really like to sleep. I don't like sleeping in but I do like about 8 hours, no more. Which brings me to my next topic...

Luciloo! Why are you not sleeping through the night!? You are 9 months old and still wanting to nurse 3 and 4 times at night! Here lies my sleep dilemma. Maybe if I was getting my 8, I would have a, not immaculate, but lovely enough house. I would have all of the house work done and finances and catering work all finished and still have lots of time to play with my girls. We would read lots of stories and build forts. We would be ballerinas and pirates. We would have lots of pets because there would be time to care for them. We would design our own textiles and sew our own line of gorgeous clothing paralleling those of JCrew and Anthro. We would make and distribute our long awaited line of wool felt hair accessories. Our garden would be brilliant. We would have San Marzano tomatoes which we would roast and can for a year of the best sauce ever. We would have a plot of land and grow the best peaches ever! Have our own dairy cow so that we could have fresh, organic milk and cheeses. We would begin and finish the BBA Challenge. We would find some niche for something spectacular and totally corner the market!!!

Oh, the endless possibilities! While I will follow my heart and pursue the aforementioned delights to the best of my ability, I will most likely still be folding that laundry. At the very least, the kids did get their weekly baths. Maybe I make this with the cannellini beans I have been soaking for not one, but 2 days now. And I might tackle my first of Peter Reinhart's recipes tonight after the girls are in bed.

I did find some lovely fabric for the girls bedrooms. Anna Maria always impresses me with her lovely designs. I will be saving for quite some time but I hope to make the girls bedding. Maybe this idea should be up two paragraphs.

I have been enjoying my girls bible study, learning to have more of a "Mary spirit". I have always felt good about trusting God and have felt gifted in faith but He is revealing to me areas in which I am not trusting fully. It feels really good to be back in a bible study.

I am hoping to hit a few yard sales this weekend. I am in search of lovely things for mere cents so hopefully I will find some treasures. Anyone interested in coming along? I really do not have an agenda. The plan is to drive around aimlessly while drinking coffee, singing loudly with my girls and looking for signs. I would be so jazzed if I found some buttery soft fabric with large and small floral print for girls room and for dresses, cake pedestals, demitasse cups with saucers, lamps for my living room, curtains for my 4 tiny kitchen windows, good knives, antique beaded jewelery, and a little tikes play thingy for the girls. Ya never know... someone could be really excited about selling those very things for really cheap.

On a closing note (wow, I guess I had a lot to say... I am really feeling chatty this afternoon), I hope you have a very lovely and peaceful weekend with your dear ones!

speaking of life

2010-03-22T15:29:00.000-07:00

Photo by Matthew Wright

Matthew took me on a very enjoyable date Saturday afternoon. We went on a 5 mile hike to Lake Clementine and back. It was lovely out so we thoroughly enjoyed the scenery and Matthew took photos as we walked and talked. I love my children and love having them along but this was nice... I held Matthew's hand as we walked and not Evelina's for fear that she would fall off the cliff. We talked about everything from parenting to our spiritual lives. It was peaceful and we were able to connect... enjoyable!

As we talked, I was sharing about how Evelina has some issues with jealousy with Luciana. I recently discussed it with a few friends and one friend suggested that maybe when I was comparing them in the spirit of discussing parenting, Evelina was listening. I think this true and maybe, I am unknowingly releasing the spirit of competition between them. I compare them to discuss parenting with friends but I also discovered that I have been sharing the darker side of Evelina so that my friends will show me some empathy. I am telling people how she disobeys and how she has such an attitude sometimes so that others will feel pity for me and give me attention of sorts.

How sad!!! I am exposing my kid so that I can receive a pat on the back! I am sharing her faults so that my friends and others can tell me how hard it must be or that I am doing well in disciplining her. All the while she is listening. She is always listening. I can not believe I actually have stooped to this level of attention-getting behavior! I can not imagine the hurt I must cause her every time I share about her weakness and the spirit of which I share them, comparing how Luciana is mostly happy and rarely has such an attitude. After grieving over this for the past couple days, I must say I am so grateful that it has been revealed to me while she is just three and not thirteen.

From this point forward, I will share about her many strengths, her beautiful heart, her creative spirit, and the fire that God has blessed her with. If I sincerely need advice in handing a situation, I need to seek help from a trusted source in confidence. If I say her name in conversation, let it serve as a reminder that I am to speak life, as her name means "giver of life" and "joy".

my bread world is about to change

2010-03-10T14:00:00.000-08:00

I just bought this book at the recommendation of a friend (thanks J!) who knew I was cultivating a sour dough starter. I have read the most of the instructional part and I am so impressed with how much I have learned. It was like taking a bread making course. I have always been fascinated with those who can bake well and I have definitely put myself out there. I have been baking my own (well not my own recipe... I copy hers) whole grain bread for about 6 months now as well as quick breads and muffins. I have had to practice but I am pleasantly surprised at how well it has been turning out. I really like bread so that helps but it has been really good. I think the only bread I have met and not liked is rye. I pretty much like all breads. But I also value health so Lindsay's recipe is really good for me. I get the health quality and great taste and texture.

I am really excited about trying Peter Reinhart's techniques! I tend to change up a recipe before even trying it but I am really going to stick to the book here so I can learn as much as I can. Our favorite little bakery (great spot to take your sweetie or for a girls time out - they have the BEST pastries and, well, pretty much everything I have had has been of the utmost quality!) has a quote from Karen, herself, saying something about how you can't break all of the rules in baking until you learn how to first obey them. That is going to be my approach as I work through The Bread Baker's Apprentice.

fruit loops anyone?

2010-03-08T23:48:00.000-08:00

We decided to make Daddy a fruit loop necklace...

but we ate it
instead : )

eat your beets

2010-03-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

A couple of nights ago, beets were on the menu. I thought Evelina would have no problem eating them because she really does like most foods. She is getting pickier, however, so I thought about it ahead of time and decided I would trump any complaint with, "Don't you want to eat pink food?" It started to work but alas, no... she wasn't going for it. Then, quick-thinking Daddy said, "If you eat your beets, your poop will be pink!" She scarfed them down and spent the rest of the night trying to push out pink poop. It was not going well for her... no poop. Her sister pooped right away and if I hadn't thought it through, I would have called 911 because it looked like she was bleeding out in her diaper. The next day, the pink poop prevailed. The moral of the story is... when in the bathroom, there is always a pot of gold under your rainbow : P

hot... or not

2010-03-08T15:04:00.000-08:00

There was this article in the Sac Bee about the pressure many moms feel to be "hot". I was reading through it and agreeing with some of the points. It is a lot of pressure to feel "hot" when you are just trying to keep everyone fed and clean, bills paid, housework done, etc. I pretty much never feel "hot"... I don't know about you but I don't really think I want to be "hot". It is truly the farthest thing from my mind. Whereas I once loved fashion and still do (somewhere in there), I like the creative element behind putting together an outfit, not how "hot" other people will think I am. I suppose that is why it is so easy for me to stay in my pajamas all day... I really do not care if other people will like it or not. The article stated that it is a woman's confidence that makes her most beautiful. As I got towards the end of the article, I felt somewhat validated for not striving to feel "hot". I almost felt hopeful that I was going to be let off the hook and allowed to just be me. Until the end. The final story shares one gal's struggle and how she got her confidence back... liposuction. Thanks, SacBee... it appears that I can be confident, once again, if only I could get LIPOSUCTION. WHAT?!!! Clearly, this article needs a bit of proofing! Nothing like changing your mind in the middle of your article! Try staying true to your thesis!!!

ham is pink

2010-02-20T13:26:00.000-08:00

Evelina has been really hungry lately. Really Hungry! This hunger really comes up when she sees something good to eat. Things like cookies, chocolate, pastries... Even if she has just eaten, she will get really hungry when she sees any of the above foods. I was worried with these "hunger pangs" she wasn't getting enough food and decided that I should definitely give the poor starving thing something to eat. So I offered her some meat - some leftover ham. She just looked at me with such a funny look as if to say, "Well, that is definitely not what I had in mind". She just said, instead, "Ham is pink". As if she was searching for something truly virtuous and exceptional about ham, making it worthy enough to eat. She took the ham and did in fact eat it. But I am not sure she will fall for it again next time.

Valentine's upDATE

2010-02-17T10:29:00.000-08:00

I think this year turned out to be my favorite Valentine's Day because of how it turned out so organically. We had a great time at dinner... Paesano's was great. I had the mushroom risotto and it was smoky goodness with it's porchini mushrooms and smoked chicken. Matthew has a Mediterranean pizza and was impressed. We fumbled our way through the streets of midtown as we looked at the various art venues. Some of the art was good and some, well, lets just say beauty must be in the eye of the beholder. I personally don't consider dryer lint and pubic hair on canvas a work of art but there was a whole wall of it so clearly, someone likes it. After we walked for several blocks and had our fill of art (and people : ) watching, we drove to Temple Coffee. It was getting pretty late but sitting in the cafe to end our evening out was perfect. I felt like we were hidden away in a cozy little nook away from the busy city night life.

We were planning to go light and spend about $30 on the whole night but we were blessed with an unexpected $50 gift card so we splurged a bit : ) I think we went out of pocket a whopping $4. All in all it was great night! I will post pics of us lovers as soon as I get them from Matthew but for now... my funny valentines...

On Valentines day, we make pink Ebelskiver with homemade lemon curd for breakfast and exchanged homemade valentines...

Nap Time or Room Time

2010-02-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

We decided to give Evelina Roomtime instead of Naptime. At first, she was soooo excited we thought she was big girl enough not to take a nap. After a few days the novelty wore off. From then on she has said that she did not want roomtime but she wanted to take a nap. If I said room time, she said nap. So I have been using a little reverse psychology. The last couple days, I have been telling her to take a nap. I have even said, "Come here my little baby... time for your nappy nap nap." This has worked beautifully... she has been playing in her room for 2 hours each day. I love hearing her play in her room. She sings, she colors, she plays instruments, she dresses up, she has tea parties, she reads books... so good for her. Being in her room without tv or me to entertain her, she is forced to work with what she has (which in my opinion is A LOT) and create fun. I remember being a kid and thinking I was bored, wanting to be entertained. But when my desires for entertainment did not come to fruition, I had to get creative. I think that this is something we tend to overlook in today's culture. Even as an adult, when the tv is off, I have to get creative. I like it. And plan to do it a lot more often!

This husband get PROPS for planning such an awesome birthday party!

2010-02-16T14:09:00.001-08:00

The Valentine's Date

2010-02-10T20:37:00.000-08:00

Matthew and I decided to not exchange gifts this year. Part of it is being practical (we do not have extra funds) and the second reason is that we are going on a date instead. In this world where diapers and crayons are a daily muse, it is nice to get out and be who we are together. We have spent many holidays trying to out-do last year's holiday and, frankly, the American consumerism of it is just exhausting. Let's just strip it down to what these holidays are really about. Or what our lives should be about and use the holidays as reminders to value each other rather than give ourselves another reason to spend money we don't have.

We are going to the Second Saturday Art Walk downtown. First, a gallery in Folsom to meet one of our favorite artists, Cao Yong. I have a long story about his painting (above) Evening in Venice. Then, dinner at Paesano's. So looking forward to it.

Happy Valentine's Week!!!

2010-02-10T14:41:00.000-08:00

via Poppytalk

I am so going to try this!

2010-02-08T18:20:00.000-08:00

Love, love, love

2010-02-08T14:58:00.000-08:00

Last year I worked secretly to make these cute little pies for Matthew for Valentine's Day from Twig and Thistle. I made a few boxes so that he could bring them to work and share with friends. Once the pies were made, I was so excited to slip them into their little boxes and surprise Matthew. I grabbed a pie and a box and much to my disappointment, my pies were to big for their cute little homes. I sent the pies on a plate but, how sad... no cute boxes! Oh, well!

I am not sure what I will do this year but I think it will involve baking again and maybe chocolate. Matthew is taking me to the Second Saturday art walk and to dinner on Saturday night for our date night. I did just find a yummy looking brownie recipe on smittenkitchen.

pretty sure any following i had has given up on me...

2010-02-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I know I have not been so faithful when it comes to blogging. Or writing. Or even to my creative other self. Lately, I have been so disconnected to that creative other self, I fear she has fled the camp. I think she may be dancing in the hills of Austria singing "The hills are alive...". Or maybe she is getting ready for the release of her newest book. Or perhaps awaiting the first cut of her very own textile design on the softest, loftiest, buttery soft fabric available. This is not the first time I have lost her. Just when I think she has left me for good and my hopes are dashed, she swept in to make some creamy and tart lemon curd from our new dwarf Meyer lemon tree. And she so sweetly and softly reminded me as we carefully concocted our very own lemon curd that I, not she, am knitting and weaving away at the my most creative, daring, and brilliant venture yet - my girls.

so that we might model in humilty...

2009-09-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

For a long time I attributed the financial challenges we had to the industry in which we labored. We were in sales, owning our own real estate business. When the economy first started showing signs of a downturn with real estate revealing the first indications, we hoped that it was a short season and believed we would weather the storm. We had not the life experience of down-turned market. We just hoped for the best and sought out wisdom and council. The encouragement we received aligned with our own thoughts about buckling down, spending less, and remaining strong through this challenge. We wrongly assessed the severity of the downturn and while, we had no debt, $30,000 in savings and a consistent 5 figure monthly income, it was not enough to carry us through.

Our saving disappeared within months, our debt rose to $50,000. We decided to sell our home, cut our losses and start anew. We listed our home for sale, waiting for a buyer, but the equity we had in our home was gone within a month as the market continued to plummet. We felt as though we had the rug pulled out from under us and we were struggling to catch our breath. We had no more room on our credit cards and our income was pretty much non-existent. We saw our only option was bankruptcy. There was no way we could recover from the hit we were taking in a time frame that would be passable.

The road of bankruptcy was laden with guilt and shame, especially since we did not personally know anyone who filed because of a failed business in a bear market. The only people I knew who filed bankruptcy had done so promptly after running up their credit cards, buying enough toys to fill a shop. While our friends and family were supportive, we were really the first in many of our friends' lives to hit financial devastation so they were not really sure how to encourage us. Awkward support through veiled judgments was the majority. But, as we met God in our quiet times, we felt nothing but love, compassion, and acceptance. We received powerful words of life in that season that will be a treasure for years to come. Though we felt the shame of failure, He clothed us with beauty for ashes. He sifted through the ash of our burned out life and salvaged our most precious treasures and uncovered a legacy that would not be tarnished by fire.

Matthew was offered a job at the Rock of Roseville, our church, right when our income was about to completely run out. We did not have to go without food due to the love and support our friends provided in that season. Though we were making about 1/4 of our prior income, we were so grateful for the Lord's provision in giving Matthew the job at the Rock. (We actually ended up earning in 2006 what we tithed in 2005.) We moved in with my mother and her husband who graciously opened their home to us for 15 months. We paid off some of the debts we felt called to pay off, though we had technically been "forgiven" by the bankruptcy, and paid off a tax debt of $16,000 not forgiven in the bankruptcy. We established a savings again. 5 months ago we moved to rent a small house about 1/3 of the size of our prior home.

It has been 2 years, nearly to the day, from our bankruptcy settlement. In my quiet time today, I felt the Lord say, "Did you ever wonder why you were a forerunner in this economic crisis?" Again, I say I thought we were some of the first casualties because of the industry in which we labored. What He said next surprised me but at the same time resounded with truth in my heart. He sent us ahead so that those around us who would travel the same road would have a soft landing, a place of peace. He "shot us out of a canon", a prophetic word given to us by Bill Norton in 2001, so that we might model His love and grace to a weak and faithless generation. Like a comet in the sky we led the way for many, our failures "on display" so that those around might see the glory of God. We shone as put-out ash being breathed upon to reveal fire inside. For that, I am grateful the Lord used us and am glad for the road down which he led us. For us, there is no other road but the straight and narrow.

Luciana Noel

2009-07-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

Luciana,

I am so blessed by you! Tomorrow is your 4 week birthday and I can't believe you are almost one month old already! The time has gone so quickly. But don't worry, my love! I have savored every moment of your newborn-ness. Though life is busy, especially with a 2 year old in tow, I have thoroughly been enjoying you.

Lets see... where to begin. Your birth... On the Monday before your birth, I started having very regular contractions every 10 minutes. I really though you would come on Monday night. Tuesday morning, I was expecting you as well. But alas, Wednesday morning, my water broke at 9am. Daddy and Evelina kept me company as I labored at home until about 12 noon. We decided it was time so we dropped Evelina off at Aunt Charlotte's house at about 1pm. By 1:30pm, we signed in at the hospital. They checked me at that time and said I was dilated to 4 cm and was fully effaced. I asked for an epidural straight away because I was expecting to be in labor for a long time as I had been with Evelina. The anesthesiologist came in and was inserting the epidural while I sat slumped over the edge of the bed and endured the most painful contractions so far. As soon as the anesthesiologist left, Dr. Ho came in and checked me. It was about 2:40pm. She looked at Daddy and said "we are going to have this baby right now!" I was dilated to 10 cm after only 30 minutes of really painful contractions! I had about 10 minutes of pushing. I remember Daddy asking me if I want to know what color your hair was. I asked if he was kidding because things were happening so much quicker that I was expecting. I was not expecting to meet you so soon! He told me you had black hair. Dr. Ho said, "Wow! You have a chubby baby!... a REALLY chubby baby!" And in a minute after that, she placed a beautiful, black-haired beauty in my arms. You were stunning! After weighing you, we found that you were 8lbs 15 ozs. I was amazed to have had such a big baby. Every ounce of you was so snuggly and cute! I called you my snuggly-buggaly because you were soooo snuggly. You were very peaceful!

That is the word that I keep feeling over you. You are just so filled with peace! You smell so sweet and you are just such a joy to have. You are a quiet baby. You rarely cry and when you do, it is more like a scream, then a grunt. You are so beautiful with your dark skin and black hair. Evelina calls your hair "fluffy" (She thinks "fluffy" hair is beautiful.) You really do resemble your sister. But you have your own look as well. I think you look more like me in your eyes where as Evelina, looks more like Daddy in the eyes.

You sleep so peacefully and at night, I have to wake you to feed you. God is so amazing that he wakes me every three hours to feed you. He cared about you the moment he made you and he cares about you enough to wake me to feed you at the exact time you need.

Evelina is so doting and loves you so much! She loves kissing you and holding you. She helps me with your diapers and gets me thing when I am feeding you. She loves to pick out your clothes for the day. When you do cry, she always is concerned and says "Mommy, please get her!" I asked Aunt Charlotte to hold you while I took Evelina to the bathroom and she could not stand to be away from you. She was crying and did not want to leave you. She ran to the bathroom so we could get back to you quickly. She loves to tell people that you are her sister!

When Evelina is napping and when she goes down at night, you and I get to have some quality snuggle time. Sometimes we nap and cuddle, other times we cuddle on the couch. I love it when you look at me with your bright eyes and coo. Your sweetness is so SWEET!

I am so excited that God chose me to be your Mommy! I look forward to knowing you and raising you to be all that He has made you to be. I already feel His presence over you. I feel peace and closeness with Him while I am holding you. I know you and He will have a very special relationship. I also felt Him lead me to pray that you would have your sister's ear. I know the calling and destiny He has for you will be so significant.

Luciana, I am so in love with you! I an overjoyed with the knowledge that I get you have you for a lifetime! I am truly blessed to be your Mommy!

Who daydreams at 4am?

2009-06-24T03:54:00.000-07:00

While I confess I would rather be SLEEPING, I might as well use my time awake doing something completely productive - coveting vacations. I have always held the Ivory Coast as one of my top locations but I would definately take Belize...

http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/central-america/belize/cayo-espanto/gallery

You, too, can stay here for $999 per night.

I had never seriously considered Thailand but this makes me want to reconsider...

http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/thailand/krabi/rayavadee/gallery

This place could be fun too...

http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/indian-ocean/maldives/huvafen-fushi/gallery

I guess I should try to get some sleep again... who knows when I will have this baby. Looking at vacations is fun but I guess I should get practical...

Good Sleep, where have you gone?

2009-06-17T03:38:00.000-07:00

I used to have problems sleeping as a youth. So many worries and stresses in my life in that season. After God so faithful healed me on so many levels, I really have not had difficulty sleeping. For the past 9 or so years, I hit the pillow and I am OUT! There has only been one thing that has sabotoged good sleep over the years. My husband will tell you too... I HATE being hot. Being hot is a terrible way to wake from otherwise glorious sleep.

So there is actually 2 things that have kept me from glorious sleep. One I despise - being hot, and the other I love, Evelina. For the past month or so, I have been remembering the sleeplessness that comes with being a new mom. Having trouble sleeping is God's gift to mommies because if we had glorious sleep while pregnant, imagine the shock after giving birth.

So here I am... up for about 2 hours now. It is nearing 4am. I am chatting with an east coast friend who is up because for her, it is time to be up. I remember texting other new mom friends in the night as I nursed Evelina and they nursed their babes (You know who you are ; )

Hmmm... it also could have been the really spicy salsa I had for dinner. I am convinced that really spicy foods and late pregancy do not go well together.

I do plan to go back to bed and try to get some more sleep before I wake to a beautiful face telling me she needs to poop.

A few Mother's Day Favorites...

2009-05-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

We went on a walk through some really big trees for Mother's Day. What a fun and relaxing day! Daddy and Evelina went shopping for some things for Evelina to pick out for me. So cute! She picked 2 garden stakes - one, a cute little pinwheel and two, a yellow flower. We put them in our little herb garden together. She also picked a lovely windchime that we hung on the patio. She had a great time picking presents for me.

I kinda spoiled the present buying fun a bit because I bought my own gift this year. While I am excedingly happy with my purchases, it wasn't quite as fun. I will get some pictures of my gifts soon.

Here are some favorite pics...

Gotta have matching outfits ; )

The Happy Couple... we are 8 1/2 months here.

The dogwoods were in bloom and beautiful!

Daddy taking her through a big tree!

She loves to play pirates with sticks... It was really cute until she poked my backside for the 50th time ; )

Abide

2009-05-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

This has been the word for me from the Lord. I have had the hardest time understanding what has been going on with me and Him lately. My usual "read the Word and get some great revelation to journal" method was not working. I have been going to the Tuesday morning sets at RHOP (who is that worship leader! he is amazing!) but have not really been able to enter in. I felt that I have not been able to connect because of the agenda of those sets but I think it is more than that. I have been coming with an expectation to meet Him and experience the amazing relationship I have had in the past. I have come to realize that while having expectation to meet the Lord is good, having an agenda on how that should happen is not good. It has been my agenda that has gotten in the way of me connecting.

This past weekend at the women's retreat, I had some time to reflect and pray. The Lord met me and said I am in a new season in which my old methods will be rendered ineffective. He said he wanted me to just abide in Him. I have known that His presence always surrounds me. Now, he wants me to abide with Him eternally. I can go through a day and not acknowledge Him at all. Sad but true. He wants me to abide and acknowledge His presence continually.

Jill Prado, a pastor at The Rock and one of our retreat speakers, likened the stages of the Christian life to stages in an eagle's life. She really helped me to put words to some of the things I have been feeling. I have felt for some time now that I lack vision. I know I am called to raise my daughter and care for my household but on a deeper level, I lack vision. I have been struggling to see what God is doing and what I should be doing on a daily basis. This has caused me pain and discouragement. I feel disconnected from God and unsure of what He is calling me to do in this season. It has even caused me to feel discouraged about how to reach my daughter.

Jill said that one of the phases an eagle experiences is the molting phase. This is when the eagle starts loosing feathers and can not fly. He is drawn away to a high ledge to let nature take its course. He not only looses feathers but his eyesight fails and he gets depressed. He can no longer find much live prey so he has to rely on other eagles who see him to drop him food.

Once this phase is over, he will have new feathers and will be able to fly higher than ever before. But until then, he just looks pathetic. I can so relate to how this eagle feels. I feel like I have been in this phase for some time now. Having this picture now of the eagle is helping me to understand a few key points. One being that the eagle's molting state is not a result of sin but a natural occurrence that all eagles experience. It feels good to know that God is carrying me and is not saying that I am enduring a consequence of wrongdoing. Instead he is encouraging my heart with love and tenderness and I endure these "growing pains".

I also take comfort in the knowledge that at some point, I will fly again with more vigor than before. I am not going to die in the wilderness but once His process to groom me is complete, I will rise up. Psalm 103:5 says, "who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's".

Another awesome giveaway at Design Mom!

2009-05-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

A few of you had trouble with yesterday link so here it is ...

http://www.designmom.com/2009/05/mothers-day-giveaway-week-2009-all.html

I love Orla Kiely's designs!

Don't miss this Giveaway, Moms!

2009-05-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

Mama's little helper...

2009-04-21T14:47:00.000-07:00

Today's breakfast was strawberry crepes. Not that it matters what we are having, my little helper can't wait to assist Mama. She really likes to help with breakfast from the stirring, to the tasting raw eggs, to the yelling for Daddy that it is ready. And she usually says "It's so good, Mommy! Thank you!"

Happiness is...

2009-04-21T14:42:00.000-07:00

Vegetable garden...

Herb garden...

Homemade Iced Lattes with beans from Bloom made with a stovetop espresso brewer...

Wearing skirts and no shoes when you are pregnant and hot (notice belly)...

What is with people who are so lonely they strike up a conversation with you in the line at the store only to tell you you are FAT!

2009-04-02T13:32:00.000-07:00

I guess it must be obvious that I have been enjoying more than my fair share of sweets because some REALLY old lady at Walmart just said it looked like I was having twins and if not twins, a really big boy. I kindly informed her that it looked like she just got through sucking a lemon... well, I said that in my head but what came out was "No, I'm having a girl...I am just short". I am just too nice sometimes...

Moved in...

2009-04-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

After 15 months of living with my parents, we have moved to our own little cottage! We are so happy to be able to support ourselves once again (even if it is barely). We are gearing up for a huge yard sale this weekend. You can't go from 2600 square feet to 1000 square feet without getting rid of stuff. No reason to hord stuff we can't use. I think the theme for our lives over the past few years (aside from "God is enough!") is cut off the fat. So, we are selling, selling, selling!

Back to the house... it is a cute 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom cottage in Roseville with a small yard for the kids and dog. It has the lovely built-in in the living room which is pretty common for these old homes. I will post pics of the house once the piles of stuff become smaller ; )

Anyways, I am looking forward to growing our love and our little family here...

Design Mom's Ask Week...

2009-04-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check it out! http://www.designmom.com/2009/03/ask-design-mom-week.html

The illustrious ultrasound pics...

2009-02-27T14:13:00.001-08:00

We are having a girl!

2009-02-17T16:12:00.000-08:00

I am really excited! I really have wanted a sister for Evelina. A best friend and lifelong companion. I have always wanted that kind of relationship and I am really excited that Evelina and this little one have a chance at such a special thing.

We have been contemplating names and our top choice right now is Luciana Noel. It means Light, Grace and Born on Christmas. One thing that jumps out at me in the meaning of this name is 1) In the beginning, there was Light and, 2)Born on Christmas. There is the first beginning followed by the second beginning. It really speaks salvation.

Evelina's name means life so we would have life and light. I think that would be pretty cool! I am open for God to name her something else but this is the only name that has seemed to fit.

She is measuring a due date of 6/26/09. Soooo... here we go! I can't wait to see your face Little Lu!

Winter Vacation 2008

2009-01-03T19:29:00.000-08:00

We took a little trip to Angel's Camp. A quaint little mining town where we got some much needed R & R. Here are some pictures of Evelina's first snow adventure. We drove to Bear Valley and played at a Sno Park along the way. It was beautiful and the perfect park for a little one.

playing catch-up... a photo tour of some favorites from the past couple months

2009-01-02T20:26:00.000-08:00

Celebrating Fall in Apple Hill!

Look out! Runaway tractor with a CRAZY man and a baby driving!

Happy 2nd Birthday Baby Girl!!!

A drive up old Highway 49 landed us in the Tahoe Valley - A huge valley of 12,000 acres in the middle of the Tahoe mountains!

Sillys!

Birthday dinner at La Provance.

Christmas Tree day!

My little snow bunny!

ok... no photos yet... don't hate me!

2008-12-22T13:55:00.001-08:00

Well, I can say I though about uploading the past 2 months of photos but I just couldn't pull it together yet. When face with a big job, I can tend to look at the whole elephant several times before I dig in and get it done. I am not a total flake so rest assured, they will be posted soon. We will be going a vacation after Christmas so it will likely be a good time to post photos.

I do want to catch up on a few things, however boring they will be without photos.

Evelina is HILARIOUS! She says the funniest stuff. Let me remind you that she just turned 2. She is singing Christmas songs these days. Some of them, the complete song. She likes the little drummer boy song the best. I am not sure why. There is a version on the radio that is choral and has a baratone voice singing "Boom" for a base line. That is the one she likes. She actually calls it "Boom" and asks for it all the time. She also likes "Oh Christmas Tree", "Oh Holy Night", "Rudolph", and "White Christmas". Like her mommy, she loves the Bing Crosby version of "White Christmas" but not far behind, actually, quite equal to it is the most fun version by the Drifters. Any Christmas season is not complete without watching this at least 10 times. In fact, I am listening it to it right now. And think it is as funny as when I first saw it 4 years ago. If you do the math, that means I have probably seen this upward of 40 times... and think it is stinkin' HILARIOUS!

Evelina also said the following funny stuff:

1. After getting her up in the morning, I was changing her diaper. She looked at me and said "Mama, Daddy toots ALOT!". Hmmm... sorry Daddy.

2. I came around the corner and we bumped into each other. She said "Mama! You scared me!".

3. Every morning she reminds me if I forget to give her Trader Joe's Gummi Vitamins.

4. She has been wanting to wash her own hands lately by stepping on a little stool. I mostly don't let her do it because she gets wet. So... she has been telling me that she touched poo so I will let her wash her hands.

5. After her bath, I was drying her hair. She found one of my hair pins on the counter. She looked at it and tried to clip it to her nipple. I could not stop laughing but I did not want her to see me so Daddy said "What are you doing? Do you see Mommy doing that?". She just looked at me as if to say "maybe she does." I have not the words...

She has also has started asking "why" for everything. I think this is something that will only be funny for a short while.

ok... enough funny stuff.

On the downside, I have been feeling REALLY lazy lately. I am bored but so unmotivated to do anything. I normally lead a very full life but, WOW, I have been so lazy!

On that note... I will sign off but I will be back soon!

Please forgive my absence... See, I am still here!

2008-12-19T14:38:00.001-08:00

I know I have promised pics of Evelina's birthday party, which incidentally was almost 2 months ago, but the first-trimester-fatigue and nausea have kept me in a minimally functional state. Yes, I did make Christmas goodies. And yes, I did have 3 events in which I did various levels of catering. I did manage to help host a lovely baby shower for my beautiful friend, Charlotte. And I might have put a dent in the large *read GINORMOUS* pile of laundry that is perpetually on the floor of our bedroom.

Here is some good news... we went to the doc and we saw the cute little bug on ultrasound. We also heard a very healthy heartbeat. For those of you who still think that my mere size means we are having twins, both the ultrasound and the single heartbeat confirm that there is only one little bug.

We ordered a very cute kitchen for Evelina for Christmas. It is not from Pottery Barn Kids but it is from Target and very cute. It is also affordable, where the Pottery Barn Kids one is not.

I do promise to eventually (maybe tonight) post pictures of the past few months but don't get your hopes up. I will try... but I have been going to be by 10pm. I know it sounds lame but I have just not made it much longer than that.

In good faith I will share a recipe... because sharing a great recipe is always a good way to win friends ; ) I made these this week for friends. They were yummy! I just had 4.

See you soon! No, really... I will, I promise!

I am thankful...are you?

2008-11-28T05:34:00.000-08:00

There is just so much to be thankful for that I could not possibly list it all. First and foremost, I am so grateful to my Glorious God, who despite my failures and flaws, continues to pour out life into my heart. Though my heart may be divided, His heart for me is single and steadfast. Secondly, I am so thankful and in love with my husband, daughter, and baby on the way. I am so blessed continually to see and know them and share life with these truly exceptional and beloved people.

Though I have been up since 2am, and I am very tired, I am clear enough to be so grateful for the opportunity to live in this age and see God be revealed in unlikely places.

ok... i think i might try and go back to sleep now...

taking it easy...

2008-11-11T21:00:00.001-08:00

I am sorry I have been a bit scarce. I have been spending time resting and such since, well, we are going to be having out 2nd child. Yes! We are pregnant! After 18 months of trying, we have another little one! We are just about 7 weeks along and I am itching to know if it is a boy or girl already. I know I have a lot to catch up on including Evelina's birthday party and the tutu, which turned out adorable by the way. Mostly because an adorable girl was wearing it but cute nonetheless.

I promise more posts and pictures soon! Maybe even tomorrow...

Lots of Love,

Alicia

Today is the day!

2008-10-29T12:01:00.001-07:00

2 years ago today... I was sitting in my room at the hospital after my water broke that morning at 5am. I was probably puking about now and completely non-verbal but, oh the joy, about 10 hours from that moment 2 years ago, Evelina was born. I will never forget her face as I saw it for the first ime. It is etched in my mind forever! I heard almost audibly the word "precious" as I saw her face that very first time.

In the spirit of going green and using what I have on hand to spend less money, i decided to make Evelina's birthday crown for her party on Saturday. (We are keeping it low key and only inviting immediate family.) The bad news is that it is a little wonky mostly due to my incredible lame attempt to write "happy birthday" on the crown. The good news is that it is one of a kind and it matches her tutu.

oh the possibilities...

2008-10-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

I have really wanted to make a quilt for Evelina. I decided that I will make a twin size because she is not going to be in a crib forever and I want her to be able to use the quilt for years to come. I want to use a really soft cotton and make a large tree from flannel and applique it to the front. I want to put this on the back. I will also cut out some of the little birdies and applique them in the tree.

I really am in love with Valori's flannel! I can't wait for its release. She said she thinks it will be out early December. I am saving up! Can you picture some jammies with this cute print? I might have to make some for Evelina too ; )

A Birthday Preview...

2008-10-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

I found the present of my dreams (barring the Pottery Barn Kitchen, of course!). This little girl is perfect for my little girl...

In addition, we wanted to get her a little ballerina costume. She will have a ton of fun dressing up. So, in leiu of buying a costume, I decided to make this little number...

You will have to wait for the birthday debut to see the finished product. Mostly because I don't want Evelina to see it before her birthday and I was NOT about to model it in front of the mirror and take a picture. Gotta keep things positive around here and me in a tutu = SCARY!

added to wishlist...

2008-10-17T13:18:00.001-07:00

This adorable mailhook is available at Urban Outfitters. I think I will take 3... if money was no object, of course.

I wish I could wear this (sucessfully)

2008-10-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

Book available through Textbooks R US

My Precious Evelina,

2008-10-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

In just a couple short weeks, you will be 2 years old. I am amazed at how you have grown into such an incredible person! You are scary-smart and do not stop talking. You can say most of the words we can. We talk most of your waking hours about things you like and are learning and I share with you new things to wrap your smart brain around. For the past couple weeks, you have been really interested in my sewing machine (which means you have been touching it repeatedly, even though you are not supposed to). I got a piece of plastic screen and a plastic needle on a thread so you could "sew like Mama".

You are very thoughtful and are always wanting to "share" your food, toys, and even your precious blankie and binky. You like looking at pictures, especially of us! You like to smile for the camera and you say "EEEE" like we do when we brush your teeth. You enjoy using one of my makeup brushes and, after dipping it in Daddy's deodorant lid, you like to apply it to our cheeks, chin, and nose. Even though you know many colors and can point them out, you think it is funny to say, when asked about a particular color, it is pink. You like watching Veggie Tales and love the musical parts of The Sound of Music.

I rock you before bed every night and sing songs like Veggie Tales' "I Love You Today" and Randy Travis' "I'm Gonna Love You Forever". I know it's kinda early but I can't resist - I have been singing some Christmas songs - "Oh Holy Night", "Silent Night", "Oh Come All Ye Faithful", and the ever-popular and profound "Bee Doo Bee Doop, Doop Doop, Doop Doop White Christmas"and "Jingle Bells"Most nights you want me to sing "Doe Deer". And each bedtime would not be complete without a "babyhug" and a "bighug" or a "babykiss" and a "bigkiss". We always say prayers asking God to give us "wisdom and revelation in our knowledge of Him" and be sure to lift up at least one of our family or friends. After the prayer you emphatically say "AMEN!"

I am not sure what we are going to give you for your birthday yet. Last year, we got you a ball (which you love still), the book, The Velveteen Rabbit (which is a bit old for you yet), and I made you 2 dresses. I would love to get you the retro kitchen from Pottery Barn Kids. We just do not have the $650 to get it. I did see a smaller kitchen at Costco but I just am not sure. My heart wants to get you something big, but our budget says we have to get you something a bit less this year. I am asking God to show me what we can get within our budget that will knock your sock off!

This may sound weird but I know you like to play here at the house (Nana's house for the past 10 months) but I always am running around, dragging you along on errands. For the most part, you are a good sport about it. I have been getting better about it and we have been have a most delightful time playing in your room in the mornings before lunchie. We made you a hideout under your crib with your kitty pillow and a little horsie flashlight. You always want me to "come under" but I do not fit so I just lay there with my head under.

I really have been enjoying your world! Especially the past couple weeks. We have gotten along famously and are really strengthening our bond with love and honor for each other. I have really not had to spank your bottom much lately. Though you are strong and are striving for independence, you are confident in our love for you and are really trying to please us more. You do try and boss Mama but I remind you often that you can not tell Mama what to do. We have been doing more together and you are blossoming into quite the little helper! You like to help with everything and the more things I let you "help with", the more I think you feel affirmed and loved.

You have been pottying in the toilet and wearing your My Little Pony panties for a few weeks now. You still have accidents but are telling me more and more when you need to go. For a few days, you were exerting your will and saying you did not want to potty in the toilet so I told you you had to wear a diaper. You have come around and are wanting to potty in the toilet again.

Daddy bought you a set of baby golf clubs and you carry those around all the time. You love to play outside in the front yard at Nana's with Daddy and golf. It starts with you both hitting the balls but when it comes to picking them up and bringing them back, you like collecting them, but you don't want to give them up after.

We have been out quite a bit for fun things lately. We have been to Apple Hill, Fairytale Town, Bishop's Pumpkin Farm, and of course, the park. You have had a lot of fun and we have many cute pictures of you.

You really love church and love to hear Daddy sing on stage for worship. You like to raise your hand and sing "Jesus". A few weeks ago, you walked up to the keyboard in our room, placed your hands on the keys and foot on the pedal, and sang "I love you, Jesus!" It was precious! I tried to get you to do it again while I filmed you but it was not the same. You like to play with your friends in the children's room at church but you are really tired after and want to go "nightnight".

I am prayerfully considering what to teach you next and how to be a better Mama. I know you have such personality and are one of the most amazing people I know! I am always asking God for wisdom in raising you. I pray that we will always be close as we continue to love and honor each other. I know you will have a fun birthday, Sweetheart, and I love you with all of my heart!

I am back in the saddle...

2008-10-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

Contrary to popular belief, I did not skip town. I took an unintentional hiatus. I have been writing, just not posting. I think for a while I got swallowed up in bloggieland. It is so easy to do with all of the highly skilled and artistic people who update their blogs even a couple time each day. There are 3 blogs I visit nearly everyday to see if to see if there is anything new. One being Anna Maria Horner's site because I am in love with her fabric. Second is Design Mom because she finds the coolest stuff on line! Third is her sister at Oh Happy Day - she also finds cools stuff and has an eye for great design. I also found this site, whip-up, on which there more DIY projects than one could ever finish and has kept me so busy thinking of the endless possibilities of projects.

So without further delay... a couple weeks worth of posts...

Punkin Patch Play!

2008-10-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

We kinda got a late start but this proved to be a fun and happy day!

I attempt to get pictures of a clean girl, we went straight to the pumpkins...

Rocking horsies!

They covered some old spring mattresses with hay for a bouncy fun time!

The hay ride was nice and long as it took us through acres of pumpkins and walnut orchards...

A trip to the pumpkin patch would not be complete without a...

Carmel apple = happy!

Yikes! That horsie has a crazy look in his eye!

Offering some hay to a baby goat...
Someone had sniff all of the flowers on the way to the car...

Welcome Annica!

2008-10-09T15:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a little hat I made for Evelina's new little friend. She has been talking to baby Annica on her phone all week! I knit it with a soft cotton yarn and attached a happy felt flower with a tiny french knot of apple-green wool.

No more diapers floating around my purse

2008-10-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

I decided to make a "bootie bag" to hold all of the diapering stuff so that it is not swimming around in my purse. I used my beautifully happy fabric from Anna Maria.

September Celebration

2008-10-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

You might remember me mentioning that I was working on an upcoming party. I did not want to give too much info as to the details so that those of you who were planning to attend would have the same experience as those who did not know what to expect. It was an enchanting evening under the big old oak on the church lawn. Stephanie, our director of women's ministry (and one of my best pals), asked me to handle the food and decoration. Here are some pictures of how things turned out...

A bit of time all to myself

2008-10-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

I am out alone with no agenda! No shopping list, no errands, no husband, no baby. I can not tell you when I last had some time out to myself. Matthew decided to golf today instead of staying home with Evelina so that I could go to a dear friend's birthday party. I had made arrangements with him to stay with her durring her nap so that I could celebrate a precious girl's 1st birthday. I was pretty frustrated at his switching plans on me and this, coupled with the fact that I have not been out alone in who knows how long, gave me a pretty good reason to cash in some chips. So, when he arrived home from golf, I informed him that I was now going to go out.

I must say, I feel amazingly refreshed! I wish I had brought my camera to capture this rare and amazing sight, but alas, words will have to suffice. I did a bit of shopping and found a few treasures - a mustard colored coat, a sweet navy blue top, and a lilac colored tank to go with my soft gray sweater. Shopping without an agenda, and a very active near-two year old is bliss! Creativity flowed as I walked about appraising and appreciating each piece of clothing. I nearly forgot what it was like to buy something after really looking at the texture, color and cut.

I then perused the magazing rack and Barnes and Noble picking out the newest relesases of Domino, Architectural Digest, Martha Stewart Wedding, and Harper's Bazaar. On my way to the check out, I found the most perfect day planner for 2009. It has an unusual shape, 12 by 6 portrait, and is covered with beautiful birdies! Perfectly inspiring as I contemplate the places Splendid Wren will go this next year.

By this time, I was getting pretty hungry so I decided to take myself to dinner. I headed to Pasta Pomodoro and ordered this really yummy shrimp appetizer. The shrimp were in a tomato chile base and were served with crisp parmesan bread.

After dinner I enjoyed a cup of coffee while I write this and study the Bible. I am reading this passage in John, vs 3 to be exact where Jesus is being likened to the snake Moses lifted up on a stick to bring healing to the people. I wonder why God chose to compare Jesus with the repugnant image of a snake?

Anyways, I am so grateful for this time out. I know some of you have time out regularly and may be thinking "You need to get more time to your self!" While some of you are thinking "Time out? What is that?" For fun, leave me a comment and share with me what you would do with a night out and how regularly you get one!

This might be fun...

2008-10-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

http://folduscandidate.com/

2008-10-04T13:35:00.000-07:00

Petersham Nurseries taken by Lisa Barber

This makes me want to call up a few of my favorite girlies and have a picnic like this! I love how they are all wearing comfy dresses. The food looks amazing too! Anyone in the fall picnic mood?

Dear Father,

2008-09-29T12:57:00.000-07:00

I am really struggling with my emotions today. The unknowns of my life erode at my confidence. I remind myself of all of the positives. We have a warm and comfortable home to live in while we attempt to bring healing to our finances. We are healthy. My husband loves me. Our little family is tight. We have jobs. I do feel better once I set my mind on things above. I do know your ways are higher than my ways. Your plan is far better than any plan I contrive. We really are blessed. I see it! Life is just hard sometimes. It is hard living between two worlds. The constant nag of this world versus the loving, beautiful, perfect world above quietly inviting, calling, wooing. It is so obvious to me which is the better road. I wouldn't give up our relationship, Father, for anything this world has to offer. My life belongs to you and my heart is awakened by your constant pursuit. I know my worries stem from the lack of time I spend in your arms. It often feels so petty to ask you about the cares of this life. In the big picture, does it really matter if Matthew is not a worship leader but an assistant leader? Does it matter how many children we have or where we live? Does it matter if I design hairclips? Compared to your glory, the answer would seem an unequivical "no". But for some reason, I feel you telling my spirit that these things do matter to you. Not just in the "of course you care about my life" way. I feel your peace covering me, blanketing me while you whisper, again, you have a plan. However meaningful then trivialized my cares are, you gave them to me. You sowed them into my heart for just this season. For what reason, I may not know. But this I know; I can trust you with everything.

Alicia

What!? You want me to PLAY?

2008-09-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

I know it must sound ludicrous but I just am not inspired to play with my daughter. It really takes all I can muster to sit and play. I have decided that it because I am really boring. I think that playing is really a fine art. One that requires a great many skills. I have listed the criteria necessary for fun play in the order of importance for any of you, who like me, are struggling.

Skill #1: Lose the agenda. Creativity only flows well in the absence of agenda. (Note the use of the word well. One can be somewhat creative with an agenda but probably will not enjoy any of its fruits in play with an agenda still clinging to one's back.

Skill #2: Use only the tools readily available. Taking your kid to the toy store to pick out a new toy to inspire creative play isn't really play. It is shopping. While shopping my fill many voids (maybe it's just me), it is guaranteed that your child will not be having much fun. It takes real skill to use something you already have to facilitate really fun, totally unique, and creative playtime.

Skill #3: Spend more than 20 minutes with your child in play. I know... it is hard. Many things beckon as you sit on the floor or the lawn. Do not become distracted, even if it seems your child is ignoring you. Even if it seems as though your child would not notice if you got up to do something really important. This skill comes with great patience. Do not give up. Just think, in 20 minutes you can get up and do something else. Once you hone this skill, chances are you will not want to get up after 45 minutes.

Ok... so that is all I have so far. Maybe some of you more experienced moms might have some more tips to help me!

Glorious Wool!

2008-09-19T13:33:00.001-07:00

A package came today. I am leaps and bounds closer with these new samples of felt. My wool thread looks so beautiful with these colors. This wool is luxuriously thick and soft. Its texture is very appealing and interesting.

Summer reading...

2008-09-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of summer, I think I may have been overly ambitious in my summer reads list. It is not a formal list of books I hoped to read but a mere expectation that I would spend the summer enjoying many good books. While I have read more books in the past 2 years than I have in the previous 6, this summer did not rank high in the book reading threshold. I read the newest 2 books by Brock and Bodie Thoene (some of my favorite authors of historical fiction) in their A.D. Chronicles series. I always enjoy their books for the vast amount of jewish culture and history they pour into their stories. I loved The Shack by William Young. A must read! I read The Pianist and while I loved the jewish history, parts were very difficult to read now that I have a child of my own. The Strong-Willed Child by Dr. Dobson was very encouraging. For fun, I read Bend the Rules Sewing by Amy Karol, a fellow blogger. I am mostly through Father Wounds by Francis Anfuso. A life-altering perspective on loving and being loved. Last but not least, I am reading The Choice by Nicholas Sparks. I own every one of Sparks books and have enjoyed them all for the curl-up-with-a-blankie-and-a-cup-of-tea reads that they are. I had planned to read the unabridged tales of Mark Twain but I just haven't been into it (Dad, I will return it to you when I see you next).

I really am looking to identify some good reads for this next season so if any of you have any good ideas, let me know...

Vacation... a blessed thing! Part 3

2008-09-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

We spent out Labor Day at Apple Hill, a favorite place from my childhood and an annual family tradition. I just love the pace there and the beauty. The first group of pictures was taken at my favorite park there, a place where I have pictures of myself as a child.

We watched the stream, ran in the grass, and ate blackberries. Note the messy face!

Daddy picked a little flower in the grass and gave it to her. I think this one will go in the Favorite category!

We stopped in at another favorite spot for Evelina's first pony ride!

She loved the pony ride so much! She was yelling "Yee Haw!" and swatting the horsie's behind. It was a riot. When the ride was over, she cried and kept saying "More Neigh!" over and over.

Orla Kiely = Love

2008-09-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

http://www.orlakiely.com/usa/?lookbook

Vacation... a blessed thing! Part 2

2008-09-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

After we left Windsor, we headed south to Dillon Beach where we joined a group of some of the finest people we know. We camped for 2 days at the beach. Evelina had a great time running around the camp. She wouldn't let us take her coat off for 2 days. I have never known a kid to love a coat so much! In true coffee-freak fashion, I brought my grinder and walked 1/4 mile to the bathroom to use the outlet to grind my coffee. Nothing stands between me and my coffee; except maybe God ; ) We took a long 3 mile walk to the pier, along the beach and back around to the camp. It was a gorgeous first day there. Then... the wind.

Here is Matthew setting up camp...

Ryan and Natalie setting up camp...

Me playing cards with my kindred spirit and my kindred Mama spirit...

Our walk along the beach... Daddy gave her a shell to hold. Note she is wearing the kindred spirit coat.

A lift from uncle Ry...

Our first night there we sat around the fire and drank tea. And tea. And more tea. I am telling you this so you get where I am going when I say I lay awake for hours trying to decide whether to get up and walk 1/4 mile in the moonlight to the yucky porta-potty, which incidentally was so full that not much more could fit. And we did not have a flashlight available. I would not be myself if I did not share indescretionately so here is the actual dialog I had with myself as I started slipping into a state of full-bladder delusion. "Should I just get up and go to the yucky-potty? Maybe if I just lay here it will be morning soon. Well, there IS the paper starbucks cup in the trash outside the tent. Why did I bring such small paper cups!? No, that will NOT do. What if I peed into a diaper? NO ONE WOULD KNOW!" Then, fully delusional but before doing something I would sooo regret, I quickly woke up Matthew and made him walk me to the yucky-potty. I was sharing this story with Charlotte after the fact and when I got to the part where I thought "no one would know", she so keenly informed that if I did in fact do the deed, no one know while I was doing it, but then in the morning I, being Alicia, would have to run and tell someone I did it. Spoken like a true friend!

Now where was I before the lack of discretion... Oh yes, the wind. The second night was so windy! It really sank into our bones and we all started to get cranky. It was so windy that the tent was blown near flat a few times. Our beloved friends and kindred spirits Mike and Charlotte so graciously offered to share their tent trailer with us. I do not know anyone so giving and selfless and Mike and Charlotte. They are such and example of love! I am not sure I would give up my bed being 8 months pregnant. Definately something to aspire to!

So the five and 1/2 of them and the three of us packed in for a night of hot chocolate and Dutch Blitz. Most definately the best part of the trip. And Charlotte so quietly and non-smack talkingly beat us over and over at the game. It was like old times, when we all shared a home together for those amazing and special six months before we all had little ones. That was surely a time I will never forget because we created a bond that will never break!

Ok... back to the camping. We woke the next morning to our kids peeking at each other through the curtain and across the trailer. We ate breakfast and headed for home. I am so glad we decided to join the camping group! It will be on our fun-times list for next year! Thanks to the Wrights, Turners, Bertrands, and Eiferds for making this a fun time!

Vacation... a blessed thing!

2008-09-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

We started the first morning of vacation off right by going to the Med 7 so Matthew could get his stitches out. (Not sure if I told, but he fell 6-8 feet at work when the ladder he was on slid out from under him. He is ok. He lacerated his wrist, needing 10 stiches.) We waited and waited and then they saw him. They removed the stitches but because we were going to be swimming, they put a kind of super glue over the healing wound. By the time he was finished, we had been there 2 hours!

We then drove a while and stopped in at Whole Foods to get some yummy stuff for our vacation week. I think we finally got there at 4pm, just minutes after Evelina finally fell asleep. I think she got a nap of about 20 minutes so she was a bit disoriented when we got there. She saw the pack and play and bursted in tears 'cause she didn't want to go night-night. Once we explained it was for later, the tears subsided.

Here is a picture of two happy girls ready for some VACATION!

We are here!!!

The sleepy girl upon arrival...

Our mornings were filled with strolls, while sipping coffee and feeding apples to horsies. Our afternoons - swimming, swimming, and more swimming. In the evenings, we sat on the patio and we ate yummy home cooked meals made by moi. I managed to read two books in 4 days (not unusual for me) and Matthew worked on his book. We needed this time together as a family so much! It was a beautiful and precious time!

Feeding some animals...

The gooey nose of an adorable cow...

A curiuos bird indeed!

Before we left, I went to Target and got this:I think it was the best $9 ever spent. We blew it up while she was napping and when she awoke, she saw it from down the hall and came RUNNING, all the while yelling "WATER NEIGH!!!" We could barely part the two of them!

Here are some pool pics...

What would vacation be without popcicles!

On our last morning there, we were blessed with this view from our patio...

I'm back... no, really, I am back...

2008-09-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

I promise to post photos of the wonderfully relaxing vacation soon! I have hit the ground running... I have 2 lunches, a dessert buffet, and a party for 200 women I am helping to plan all within the next couple of weeks. I am sorry to be scarce but I will probably have some fun and interesting posts by the weekend.

In the meantime, fall is approaching. Are you ready? I know I am!

this is LOVE

2008-08-22T14:06:00.001-07:00

There is something about naptime that makes me happy... it comes in the form of coffee. Here is a picture of my little lab. Oh, so happy!

There is a bit more exciting news... I have had now 2 baby boutiques express interest in carrying my line of hair clips. I just stopped in to shop at one and just browse another with my beautiful friend and just happed to describe what I was making. I have looked and I just haven't seen anyting like it. Hmmm... I wonder what will come of this? I am awaiting some samples of wool and some wool thread. I have some cute ideas for package design because we all know that packaging is crucial. I guess we will have to see...

I am not sure how much posting will be going on next week while we are away on vacation. I will try to sneak away and get some in but, no promises.

The newest creations...

2008-08-22T13:52:00.001-07:00

These are not original ideas. I totally ripped them off from JCrew and Anthropolgie. I am having fun nonetheless.

#1: My version of JCrew's Chiffon Rosette Belt.

#2: The little house I am making for Evelina (original idea found here). I am going to take this with us on vacation and finish it there.

OUWIE!

2008-08-22T13:31:00.001-07:00

Someone fell on her face in the kitchen while helping me unload groceries : ( She cut that little piece of skin that connects the upper lip to the gums. After the bleeding (and crying) stopped, she let me take this picture to show her fat lip to Daddy. She actually did not cry that much. I would have definately been a bigger baby about it.

the most perfect little house... if only we could move here!

2008-08-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie has THE most adorable doll house available! I would have loved make the a home to my little animals when I was a child. I think I am going to attempt to make something similar for Evelina. Too cute!

Vacation - 6 days and counting!

2008-08-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

We are so looking forward to our up-coming vacation! The last vacation we had was last year with Matthew's parents in their motorhome to Oregon. Those were some good times! And before then, we took 3 days in Carmel right before Evelina was born. And before that, was our annual Maui trip for the prior three years. Throw in the mix a couple of family camping trips to Tahoe and Little Grass Lake. One thing our vacations have had in common except the one in Carmel - we are not alone! We love our friends and family but there is need for all to get away as a family (or couple) without others.

This vacation is going to be just that! We are going to eat-in, swim in the pool, hang out at the condo... We may venture out to the beach one day, Matthew might golf one day. But, overall, we are going to rest - by ourselves! Oh the joy! Maybe we will give eachother spa treatments - you know, Evelina can rub my feet. Massage is actually very important to her. She likes having her back rubbed and she likes to rub Mommy and Daddy's backs. Yeah for rest, yeah for massages!

I do want to get Evelina a fun pool floatie thing before we go... Anyone know where I can get an exceptionally fun floatie thingy for a baby?

I am LOVING the new arrivals at JCrew

2008-08-13T11:22:00.001-07:00

Love the yellow polkadot top. I have been coveting this double breasted cardigan for some time! And the pinky-red velvet is gorgeous!

This is soooo me!

And this bracelet would go so well with these vintage earings my mom gave me!

I MUST have these shoes for Fall...

Be sure to check out their lookbook for Fall. I think I want one of everything!

http://www.jcrew.com/flatpages/womensFallPreview.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302024441&bmUID=1218651078957

Our 9 year anniversary!

2008-08-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

I think we spent less money on this anniversary than any other! But, nonetheless, it was fun! We went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory (a thanks to my lovely friend, you know who you are). Then to see Dark Knight. We stole candy from Walmart. We were almost caught 'cause this lady heard Matthew say "Can you fit all of this in your purse?" but, she turned the other cheek. Just kidding... we had to add a bit more G-rated excitement in there since I won't go into the real excitement of the night but I will tell you it involved sheets ; ) PS- I have no idea why Matthew is trying to choke himself and my head is about to twist off.

A little birthday fun...

2008-08-12T20:39:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday, my love!

Chillin' with Uncle Ry
The lovely Natalie and our friend Tass... I would have pictures of his beautiful wife but she made me delete them.
'Cause we're brothers
and one of me... to prove I was there!

Recycled tablecloths...

2008-08-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

I had this fabric that was heading for the Goodwill. And then I thought... I could use a bag for the Farmer's Market. This is what came out...

It is not fabric I would have picked out and bought but it turned out cute. I cut a flower out of another fabric, also heading for the Goodwill, and hand stiched it on as an applique. It is my attempt to "go green".

the illustrious chairs...

2008-08-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

Ok... don't think trash. Look ahead... picture a splash of yellow. Maybe even a little birdie?

Check out these GORGEOUS pics of the Olympics Opening Ceremonies!

2008-08-10T14:02:00.001-07:00

http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2008/08/2008_olympics_opening_ceremony.html

Evelina's language...

2008-08-04T13:15:00.000-07:00

doogie = Judah
eegie = Regis
meemee = Missy (cat)
meme = Medicine for booboo's)
NinaNeenee = Evelina
baum = milk
ghgh = yogurt
chch = cottage cheese
bee baa = big ball
boo poo = big pool
baby mama = baby llama
boomee = movie
ryry = Uncle Ry
mahoo = Matthew (yes, she called him by his first name)
mm-mm-mm = when she wants to cuddle her blankie
BINKYBINKYBINKYBINKY = when she wants her binky (which for the record is only allowed at night (my justification for her having it at all))
poopoonighnigh = when she went poopoo in her diaper while asleep
fsh (while swinging her arm wildly) = flushing the toilet
pum = plum (she likes picking them straight from the tree and eating them
wee = swing
tida = Matilda
lmlmlmlm (sticking her tongue out) = giraffe
RARRRR = lion
usse = juice
side = outside
tee = wants to brush her teeth

I will continue to add to this list as I am reminded of other words she uses... I just wanted to remember all of the wonderfun things she says and how cute they are!

On another note...

2008-08-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

Matthew loved the golf membership we gave him for his birthday. We also got a book on all of the PGA courses and another book on area hiking trails. Evelina gave him money for a golf lesson to help with his irons. On Sunday after breakfast with his parents, we all went to the train museum. It was fun! I think he had a good birthday.

I know I promised to post pictures of my ghetto chairs but my camera battery is dead (excuses!). I will do so promptly after I get a good charge.

The little felt hairclips are evolving... Not ready to post pics yet.

Quarterly build-up

2008-08-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

I think it is fair to say that each quarter of a year, things build up and I have a mini-breakdown. I overall am happy, contented, positive, and stable. I trust the Lord with all of my heart and do not dwell on the negative elements of life but instead really look for things to be grateful for. But, 2 -4 times each year, things don't move through the emotional pipeline as fast and get backed up. Yesterday was one of those days where things aren't flowing as usual. I was a bit irritable the day before yesterday and it carried over to yesterday. I rarely get irritable so I knew things were just off. It came to a head yesterday afternoon. I can't say anything significant happend to spur on this clog of emotion. I have been thinking about our upcoming move and how we are a bit behind in our financial goals but I don't think those things alone would cause things to go aray. I am sure it is because I haven't really got to spend quality time with the Lord as much I usually enjoy. This time with the Lord is essential to my health. I know there has been some weakness in my foundation without this quailty time with my Father. So, today, I am going to tie up some loose ends by having quality time with the Lord.

Evelina has become increasingly challenging over the past couple weeks. I definately need to be on my game if I am to handle her game. For example, she wanted me to get in her little pool. The instant I got in she started yelling at me to get out. The yelling increased to the point of her taking some swings at me. I had just swatted her before this episode for not coming when I called her so instead of swatting her, I made her sit on her chair while I splashed and had fun in the pool until she could change her attitude. It wasn't instant improvement but she did eventually get in the pool with me and we splashed together. Being a mom is one process after another. She did give me a kiss and tell me she loved me before her nap so I felt a bit better. Not that I am parenting based on how I feel because if I did that, she would be very messed up. I have to stay focused. If I stray just a little, I will fall and take her out with me. The Lord has entrusted me to be her parent and given her to me as a reward so I must raise her in all diligence.

While my emotions were tweaked, I got easily annoyed with a couple people whom I love. I normally have LOTS of grace for those around me but I felt like I was being grated on all sides. I did not get all confrontational on those who slapped me with offensiveness but I don't think I really responded in love either.

Well... I think that is enough venting for now. I hope your day is GREAT and you see the Lord in His marvelous light!

this week

2008-07-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry if it feels I have been it a bit scarce. I have had a busy couple of weeks. I catered a men's breakfast (and made an egg strata that looked like heaven on earth when it came out of the oven but then promptly looked like a mere casserole after I cut it into 80 pieces), had 4 birthday parties, quickly stopped in and browsed my neighborhood Anthropologie, and then I just started putting legs to some of my creative ideas. There is no point in being creative if I can't get anything out.

I have been experimenting with some felt for hairclips for Evelina. I think I may have something cute... I will let you know and post pics when I am finished. A local boutique offered to take a look at them. That could be cool.

Today, I found some retro chairs on the side of the road. They are 70's style kitchen chairs. They need to be redone but are in otherwise good condition. I have been looking for an excuse to buy Anna Maria's Ivory Sketchbook fabric. These chairs will be perfect! I have been reading the before and after archives at Design Sponge and have been wanting a project of my own. If they turn out nice, I might be willing to sell them. Stripped and primered them them this afternoon and will be ready to paint them tomorrow. I will post my "before pics" tomorrow as well.

And... Thursday is Matthew's birthday. He has been saving to get himself a playstation for quite some time now. I hope he likes what I got him. He is really hard to buy for! We are having a family dinner tomorrow and I am making ribs with my homemade BBQ sauce. Thursday we are going to Joe's Crab Shack. Sunday, breakfast with his parents. So a week of FUN!

On a personal note, I have a few goals for the weeks ahead:

1. Spend quality time with the Lord.
2. Spend less money.
3. Be less busy.

I have the highest hopes of bringing you great insight as I strive to reach these goals. But for now... as Evelina would say, "nightnight".

Birthday and then crash

2008-07-24T22:05:00.001-07:00

We had the honor to celebrate one of our favorite girls on her 13th birthday last night. It was a night of fun... and yogurt. She seemed really happy! What a blessing to be happy at 13. I pray for that kind of joy for my baby girl. Oh, that she would be as mature, fun, happy, cute, silly, solid, and commited to the Lord as our friend Sammie.

On the way home from the party, we happened upon an accident. It had just occured and the two men involved were lying on the ground. There was no blood but the were very hurt. Another gal who came just before us was just calling 911. We tried to keep them still and comfort them while we waited for the medics. What an experience! We pray that the will suffer as minor pain as possible and that they would be able to our Father through this trauma.

We went from a very fun and celebratory mood to a sober one.

Favorite pics from last weeks trip to the beach

2008-07-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

This one is my FAVORITE!

She had the best time just rolling around in the warm sand...

Here is me having a good day...

I love the action in this shot...

Dada had a great time playing in the sand too!

on making you feel better about your life

2008-07-23T15:13:00.000-07:00

Two things that will improve your outlook:

1. We got dressed up for dear Natalie's birthday party. I had to stop at Trader Joe's to get some milk for the men's breakfast I was catering the next morning so we pulled up to the store and Matthew dropped me off choosing to wait in the car with Evelina. As I got out of the car, I hear him yell something but I figured it was the usual "hurry and get out because I wouldn't want to the person behind me to think I was , God forbid, LETTING YOU OUT IN FRONT OF THE STORE". When I got back to the car, he told me he was trying to mercifully let me know that I had a cheerio stuck to the back of my dress like a bullseye on you know where. Niiiice...

2. I stopped for coffee the other day and was chatting with some folks there. Evelina was feeling peculiarly quiet that morning. I was holding her and as someone approached her, she leaned her head on my shoulder and patted me, saying "Mamma" in such an affectionate way. My heart was a-flutter because getting loved from your child is so wonderful since most of the time they are challenging your every move. I was lost in the moment. I did not realize that loving pat had turned into a grope of my boob while the poor soul looked at me pathetically.

I LOVE being a mom. I am never at a loss for things which humble me.

whereas one should not put a toddler to nap wearing only a diaper

2008-07-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

I got home from bible study today a bit later that usual cutting into Evelina's naptime by about 20 minutes. I changed her diaper and then, against my better judgement, I laid her down wearing only a diaper. It was just really warm in the house. I had a fleeting thought about her removing her diaper but then followed it up with the classic "surely she wouldn't do THAT".

Sure enough, about an hour earlier than she should have woken, she started calling for me. She's all "MAMMA". I was like "what is it Sweet Pea" as I walked in her room and into big cloud of really stinky poo smell. She was waving her arms and was all "I poo-pooed the bed!!!!" She reached down to pick up something. I was all "you did NOT just poo the bed" followed by "DON'T PICK IT UP!!!". Clearly she had removed her diaper before falling asleep, backed one out onto the bed, while asleep, then at some point rolled over and woke up face to face with a big brown turd. Yikes!

No wonder she was yelling my name. Fo' sure that would be my worst nightmare. I have had a couple close calls with pee (I do NOT know why I am sharing this with you guys! (Don't tell no one 'K?!)) But waking up with a turd in my face would definately be one of my worst days.

She amazingly only got it on her feet as she raced back and forth, hanging on the crib gate shouting "MAMMAAAA!" There were little footprints of poo all over her white crib sheet. I thought about cutting out the cute little print and mounting it in a frame for the grandparents for the next holiday since clearly grandkids can do no wrong and grandparents swear that their kids never cried and stuff. I think I might have just gone there but I think I started to get really grossed out. Don't tell the grandparents because their kids' poo smelled like roses.

We got all cleaned up and are now sitting on the couch trying to get past this (things like this can leave some serious woundings if not processed properly - don't look at me like that, I have a girl!).

Anyways, I thought I might make you feel better about your life.

Two lists...

2008-07-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking on all of the things that make me a good mamma and all of the things that make me a work-in-progress mamma. Chalking one up to the work-in-progress list, I need to be more consistant. Evelina wins far too many times. AHHHHH!!!!

Ok, I just had to get that out. I have been really blessed in that I have not experienced anger in dealing with my child. But, there is an internal struggle and I am constantly reviewing the good mamma/ w-i-p mamma lists. I finally bought "The Strong-Willed Child" and I am enjoying it. It is a bit scary... all of those tantrums and acts of terror as told in the book. I hope I have what it takes and pray daily for wisdom in raising Evelina. I read and loved "Shepherding a Child's Heart". It is really Evelina's heart I want to get to. I pray for understanding in how to lead her to an understanding of authority and boundries that are love and respect. I pray that our family would be close and in her adolescence, she would want to spend time with her family because she is loved and wants to give love. I pray she would see the goodness and love that is in Jesus and feel her value all of the says of her life.

God... give me wisdom... and more love!

My Mom (in-law)

2008-07-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

I truly am blessed with the greatest Mom (in-law) in the world! She is one of my closest friends and we share so much in common. Here is a picture of Matthew and Evelina with Mommo and Papa when we went to our local llama show.

I know we haven't spent as much time together as we have in the past but I think about her all the time. I was thinking about her the other day as I ran a cross this cute idea from Heather Bailey's site. So here is my version of it. My sewing is less than impeccable but my heart was in it all the way. My Mom (in-law) and I share a love of making things so Mom... this is for you = )

4th of July Fun!

2008-07-05T14:03:00.001-07:00

Part One: Tie-dying t-shirts

The ever-crafty, fun and creative Aunt Rho Rho planned a tie-dye party!

Elleanna picked orange... I wonder now why hers turned out green?

Matthew showing the girls how it is done! He went crazy on his shirt with rubber bands!

Evelina did not dye her own shirt but had fun nonetheless...

Our masterpieces... We are about to crash your seventy's parties Brady Bunch style!

Part Two: Fireworks

The girls modeling the fireworks...

Chillin' with Aunt Rho Rho!

Ok... So I know your mouth is full but I had no other pictures of you! This is my friend Stephanie, who is, by far, one of the coolest people I know, and the hottest chick at the pool!

There is a VERY special place in my heart for Sangiune Kenny!

Someone was up WAY past her bedtime...

... but it was worth it! Holla for good, old-fashioned family fun!

Six Flags

2008-07-05T13:22:00.000-07:00

We had a great time for my niece, Amber's, 5th birthday partying it up at Six Flags. My sister Heather was so generous and paid for the entire family's tickets. Thanks so much, Heather for such fun. What a great way to celebrate Amber on her 5th. Here are a few pics of the great fun to be had at Six Flags... or at a 5th birthday.

All Mamma's need smooshy-face pictures with their babies...

The Big Kahuna...

Waiting for the Tony Hawk ride...

Ry needed some serious convicing... At least his wifey was there to comfort him...

Evelina's favorite part of the day...

Evelina's other favorite part of the day...

Matthew and Evelina are waiting for the glorious arrival of a butterfly...

Matthew noticed a hair on the camera lens and was intently trying to remove it...

Sadly enough I have no pictures of the Birthday Girl... I am ashamed! If someone has a good one, please send it to me so I can post it! Happy Birthday, Sweet Girl!

Pillowcase dress...

2008-07-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

I am sooo making this after I pick up some old pillowcases from the Goodwill...

Anna Maria is such an inspiration! I love her style and reading her blog makes me feel like an old friend. I emailed her to ask for a pattern for the bag I found on her site made from her fabric line and she emailed me back! Wow! Maybe we can be friends!

Giraffes Can't Dance...

2008-07-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

I just bought Evelina the funniest book! A book where lions tango and rhinos rock and roll. It is a summer must have!

We have another baby!

2008-06-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

Ok... So maybe I tricked you... I am not pregnant (yet). Evelina had a baby. She has really been into babies so I really wanted her to have her own. She is the proud mama to Angelique Fiona, aka Baby Angie.

Hugs and Kisses!

And of course she needs a stroller to push her around...

Here is a shot of the three of us...

My new fabric

2008-06-26T10:54:00.001-07:00

I am so excited about the new fabric I just bought from AnnaMaria. It is gorgeous! I plan to make this purse I saw on her site. I am SMITTEN!

Bath Duckie... of the non-rubber kind

2008-06-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

Road trip for Debe's Wedding

2008-06-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning, I awoke at 5am because for the first time ever, I left my baby at home spending 2 days away so that I could witness the beautiful miracle that was Debe and David coming together in marriage.

We started Friday morning out right with coffee.

We headed to the coast at Monterrey to drive all the way to Oxnard via Highway 1.

Stephanie had the privilege of seeing Hearst castle in San Simeon before but I never had, so we took the tour. Amazing and worth the $24 ticket!

It took us about 12 hours to get to the hotel in Oxnard but it was sooo worth the trip! We had a great time and never ran out of stuff to catch up on. Being so busy with babies and work, it gets harder to keep up with friends. We breathed fresh ocean air, were awed by the might and valor of the sea, and were charmed by sea life! And we had the added benefit of sharing with each other!

We checked in at 6pm and got ready for the bachelorette party at TGIF. Here is Barb and me at the bachelorette party. We have a picture somewhat like this from 10 years ago which looks like we are a 2-headed monster. That is great news because it looks like we haven't aged a bit, Girl!

Here is Debe and Steph at the party...

Steph and I headed back to room at 10pm, ate brownies and ice cream while watching the amazing Horatio Kane, and then zonked out.

We got up and ate the hotel's mediocre breakfast buffet (sometimes it sucks having such a sophisticated palette =). Then, we headed to the wedding site to help out. She is very well connected in LA and her friends did a beautiful job decorating and setting up so there was not too much needed. It just so happened that on the day we traveled to such a gorgeous coastal location, they had a heat wave and it was over 100 degrees instead of the forecasted 83 degrees. We were totally fried and sweaty by the time the wedding began. Thank God everyone was sweaty or I would have felt like an utter sow!

The wedding was short and sweet! Debe was likened to Ruth and David, to Boaz. How beautiful that Debe really did get a kinsman redeemer and David, a beautiful example of Christ's bride! They shared their own vows and included one of my favorites from Solomon's Song, "Set me as a seal upon your heart, a seal apon your arm."

After the wedding, we left for home at about 5pm. We made it home at 11:30 after 3 stops. Not bad time, eh? We tried not to go over 80mph.

Our hubbies and babies were happy to see us the next day!

Congratulations, Debe and David! Live long and prosper in the Lord! May God give you wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. May he continue to give you examples of His love for His bride through your marriage!

Two friends, two pedicures, and two sushi rolls

2008-06-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

Us at Starbucks (Of course our first choice would be javaj's but he is closed evenings)... Starting the night out right. Notice our smiles. Iced coffee while getting pedicures is sooo like being on vacation!

Here is one of the yummy rolls at Sky. I love the creamy spicy sauce which I am sure has fat, fat, and fat as the main ingredients but I love it nonetheless. It is bliss! We stuffed ourselves! Two things I don't do when I am with my hubby - eat sushi, because he is not a big fan, and stuff myself, because I then I feel like a big pig. Thank God for friends!

It is really nice to take the night off sometimes. As a mom, it is not always easy to get away. I cherish every moment with my daughter and my husband. But I also love an old-fashioned girls night. It is in these rare times, I really can enjoy the new me. The new me meaning the mom me. I was driving home from the evening and I caught myself smiling. (I tried to take a picture of myself, smiling, as I was driving home but they all made me look like we hit the bars, which we did not. So needless to say, they were far too bad to post. I wanted to capture the feelings of happiness and satisfaction about where I am in life but I just looked tired. Not real convincing. I trashed those pics.) I really was smiling in the car as I listened to really loud music in my new minivan. If anyone saw me, they were probably laughing because before I was a mom, I would have laughed. I don't know what it is about a mom rockin' out in her minivan but I would have laughed before kids, and come to think of it, if I saw someone else doing it, I would laugh now too.

Thanks to my beautiful friend Stephanie, for good times and a friendship where we can just be us!

New Van - Addendum 2

2008-06-11T15:24:00.001-07:00

So I shared earlier that the van was paid for through an insurance refund, but I did not realize that the flight and gas was paid for too.

A few weeks ago, our pastor at the Rock asked those who have something to give to line up on one side of the room and those who have a need to line up on the other side. The lines moved to the front of the church as the people at the front of both lines met, hugged, and the giver gave to the reciever. It was so moving and powerful! There were many tears as needs were met and people were blessed. Usually, we would be one of the first to give because that is sooo our hearts but this time God asked us to get in the recieving line. It was very humbling and embarrasing but we acted out of obedience. We were given $411 that night. We were also heavily impressed upon by the Lord to not make an offer in compromise on our taxes but instead pay it in full, no matter how long it takes.

About a week ago, we were challenged by someone about our decision to pay our tax bill in full. They made the point that if relief was available, then why not try for it. We had the opportunity to share about obedience to the Lord and we firmly shared that it would be disobedience to do anything but pay our taxes in full. Two days after that proclamation, the van was made available to us.

We thought at first our $411 should go towards our tax bill but now we see that when we spoke out our obedience, God blessed us with something very intimate. He saw that we were making due with one car but he blessed us with a second, much nicer family vehicle. The $1000 covered the cost of the van and $411 was the cost of the flight and gas to get home! What a miracle! God is a Father who cares for and provides for us in ways that are intimate to us! Thank you, Father!!!

Evelina is REALLY excited about the van, too!

Tragic!

2008-06-09T14:55:00.001-07:00

Aparently Steven Curtis Chapman's daughter, Maria Sue was killed in a tragic car accident recently. She was killed when her older brother was driving his car and he did not see her in the driveway. Here is a picture of their family. Maria Sue is the one in Steven's lap.

I read somewhere that he wrote the following song for this daughters a few months ago. I read someone's comment about how prophetic the song is and I can't help but agree.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tN7_qbOpuWs

I cried as I watched this video and I cannot imagine what it would be like to lose a child. Nor could I imagine running over my sibling with the car and killing her. Please keep this family in prayer!

Addendum to my latest post ,"New Van"

2008-06-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

Matthew began his journey home in the new van this morning at 8:30am. I called our insurance company to add the van about 9am. The gal in customer service was adding the van when, lo and behold, she saw a credit due us from our old homeowners policy. The amount was $1,000. The same amount we just paid to Matthew's Grandpa for the van. Don't you just love how God works! His ways are exceedingly intimate and mysterious! I love it! He meets us in such splendid ways and thinks of things that even a suspicious mind, such as I have, could conjure.

New Van!

2008-06-08T18:47:00.001-07:00

Never would I ever have thought I would be excited about getting a van! But here I sit, jubilant and thankful that God has blessed us with, yes, a mini-van. Matthew's grandparents just bought a new Kia and have offered to sell us their, yes, mini-van. They have kept and cared for it immaculately. We were elated to accept their offer. Sooo, Matthew flew to Spokane, Wa, which is where many of his family live. They called last night with their proposal and today, his brother, Brannon picked him up at the airport. He will be able to spend tonight with them, but then head back first thing in the morning to begin his 14 hour drive.

Here is a 1999 Dodge Caravan to give you an idea. Ours is white = ) I will surely post pictures of our fly new ride once they are in!

Work...

2008-06-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have now concluded that my new job is going to more work that I thought it would be. The 5-10 hours per week is acurate for the weekly part. I just completed the catering for my first special event and it took me about 15 hours. I have another near 15 hours extra to put it this next week as well. Wow! So forgive me if I am hard to catch!

My Love

2008-05-23T09:14:00.001-07:00

I am so proud of you my beautiful daughter! You are so smart and so charismatic! You are nearly 19 months old now and as spirited as ever! You have such a strong personality and you are constantly trying to boss Mama. I remember you bossing Mama as I nursed you at 3 months old. We work on your will regularly. You are quick to recieve correction and move forward. You stomped your foot in anger at me yesterday. Your mind wants to do things your body cannot yet do. Just today, I asked you to point out the colors of blocks. There are four colors on our blocks - red, yellow, green and blue. Your correctly pointed at each one. Yesterday you really started pronouncing "mine". We work on sharing daily. Great Grandma and Great Grandad are here visiting and you can pronounce their names well. You love to be tickled and to play peek-a-boo. You told me a few days ago that you wanted to wear your shirt with the giraffes on it. I am not sure how to write the way you say "giraffe" but ask me and I will tell you. Too cute! You love blueberries and bananas. You always want yogurt and cottage cheese for lunch. Sometimes I give you a cashew butter and jelly sandwich and you like that too. You really like to play at children's church. The other day, I had a meeting at the church so we met in the childrens' room so you could play (you usually run to play on the tumbling mat and rarely look back). That day, you wanted to sit on my lap and kiss me instead of playing. I loved every bit of it! I can't wait to blow up the pool we just bought you! It has a water slide and a huge giraffe spraying water on the slide. You saw the picture on the box and got excited. I can't wait to see how excited you will be when you see the thing set up!

I just wanted to share a bit with you since it had been a while. I love you Sweet Pea! Your will always be my baby!!!

Love Ma Ma

Promised pics

2008-05-19T14:47:00.000-07:00

Getaway materials...

I had to post one of the happy couple...

Here is one of the food...

Another one (which I love because the groomsmen make my food look good!)...

Salads...

Salads, fruit, drinks...

Whew... I think I can finally sit down

2008-05-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

I don't have any pics to post yet since my camera battery is dead from taking a ton of shots. I will get to that later today. I think I can take a rest after a completely busy but splendid first few weeks of May.

I felt a sudden shift as I began to feel redefined in April. I started this blog amongst other creative ventures I never really had the mojo to do. I have always had creative ideas but never had the stick-to-it-iveness to get things done which did not have looming deadlines. Now that I am a SAHM, I have had the inspiration but also the feet under these ideas to get them walking.

Starting May, I picked up my very part time catering position at the Rock, I excitedly volunteered to design for the Women's Getaway, and I catered my first wedding for my beautiful step-sister, Jennifer. Mother's Day was tucked in there nicely, too. I had been easing my way into the catering job until the Getaway stuff and the wedding were finished. I have heard nothing but rave reviews on the Getaway (I sadly could not attend because I had the wedding). I got props from Women's Director (and one of my best friends) Stephanie in front of the women on the materials I designed. And finally, I think the wedding turned out beautiful! I think Jen was pleased with how things turned out, too.

So... I am a happy girl! I had some big projects and I feel they all have turned out! It feels great to put your hand to something and have it work out. And now... I think I can rest... for now. And focus on my primary love and duty - Mommyhood!