This Brick House

If you give a boy a cookie...

2010-11-23T16:55:00.000-08:00

If you give this boy a cookie...

HE WILL MAKE A MESS!

There's that goofy "cheese" face again.

Somehow this boy manages to make a mess big enough to look like he's eaten 10 cookies, yet he still has about 75% of the cookie left! But who could ever get upset with a face like this?

Flat Top Fun

2010-11-23T16:28:00.000-08:00

This boy was in desperate need of a haircut so we decided to have fun with it and gave him a flat top for about 2 minutes...he wasn't a fan, but it provided a few laughs for the rest of us.

Harvest Festival 2010

2010-11-23T16:08:00.000-08:00

The Harvest Festival is one of my favorite things our neighborhood does. It's a fun way to follow up Halloween and the kids always have fun. This year there was bull riding, rock climbing, pony rides and more. The kids (Jason included) had a blast. I enjoyed snapping pictures of my loves while I soaked in the sun on the cool fall day, it was my kind of weather :-)

This kid probably possesses the cheesiest "cheese" face ever!

Me and my boy, we both love a good cuddle.

Sometimes I boy needs a kiss from his mom-mom

The happiest cowgirl I've ever seen!

Our Holiday Tradition

2010-11-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

In this house the first cup of hot cocoa isn't served until we have the Toys R Us Christmas book. We set aside an evening to enjoy our first cup of cocoa while we browse through the catalog circling which toys are going to make it to our list for Santa. I love watching the serious thought put in to each choice. This year all but maybe 6 things were circled and the decision to circle seemed just as intense haha.

Mail from Great Grandma and Grandpa Brick

2010-10-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

Ashley and I were out for a walk when she started to tell me how sad she was that she never gets any letters in the mail. Grandparents must have a sense for these sorts of things because when we got home and brought in the mail there was a card for her and one for Colin. It was the annual Halloween card from Great Grandma and Grandpa Brick. The kids were beyond excited. I miss that excitement for mail :-) When they opened up their stickered envelopes they found cute Halloween cards and McDonald's gift certificates. The happiness was overflowing, so much so that it couldn't contain itself and jumps for joy had to be done.

Back to Bible Study

2010-09-23T16:28:00.000-07:00

We headed back to Bible Study and Ashley was so excited to go back to class with her teacher, Dr. Bill. Colin had no idea what was going on but he seemed excited until he got to his classroom door. That's when the death-grip set in and the tears started to fall. I peeled him off and handed him over while watching him scream and arch his back with his arms stretched out towards me. Talk about pulling on a mom's heart, ugh. I never went through this with Ashley but I knew he had to just get over it and that he was with wonderful teachers that would love him to death. It took a few weeks but now he's happy to walk through the little door to his class, friends and teachers. It's been so fun having two kids in class, I now get two art projects to hang on the fridge each week! Here are a few pictures from the first day :-)

Our little monster and princess

My Little Ham

Mutt Mingle

2010-09-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

When we got home from Ashley's soccer game there was Hauser. He had been home alone for half the day and was the perfect dog that he usually is. So, I told Jason we needed to take him to the Mutt Mingle so he could feel special. When I asked him if he wanted to go to the puppy party his butt started shaking and he was ready to bolt out the door. When we got there we saw our Bulldog friend Bentley that we met on a walk when he was a puppy 8 months ago. Hauser had fun meeting all of the doggies, especially the Great Danes- they were his favorite. The event was literally the dog version of The Taste of Ladera, they had dog treat bars, a lady drawing charicatures of the dogs, games for the dogs to play and win prizes, agility courses and lots of vendors handing out samples and prizes. After we Mingled with the vendors we decided to let Hauser really mingle with the mutts in the dog park. He had a grand old time running around with the dogs and it was fun to watch so many dogs play together so nicely.

Hauser made lots of friends

These two raced and raced and raced

The best looking Bully in town

Stopping at the doggy fountain

Ashley won a stuffed bulldog and was pretty happy.

Bathtime Babes

2010-09-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

I love washing these happy faces at bath time. It's their favorite time of day, which means it's also my favorite time of day. They splash, giggle and make bubble beards (it's so funny to watch Colin try to lick it off his chin). Ashley is the master bubble hair shaper and Colin is the king of splashing.

Driving Mr. Daisy

2010-08-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

I was looking for something in my car while holding Colin, that wasn't working so well so I had him sit in the driver's seat. He thought he hit the jackpot the second he saw the steering wheel. I have a feeling he will be counting down the days to his 16th birthday when he's 5...yikes!

The first Father-Daughter Dance

2010-08-22T22:20:00.000-07:00

Jason took Ashley to the father daughter dance at church, they had so much fun. Ashley and I had fun getting her ready for her big date and I had a lump in my throat as they drove away. When they came home Ashley gave me a run down of everything they did. They danced, played shuffle board and ping pong, talked with other father's and daughters and had treats. It was so nice to see these two have special time just for them.

Showing off her "fancy nails"

These are some pictures from the dance that the church sent to us. I love that they had dads do prom style pictures with their girls.

Dad's and Daughters having a blast.

VBS

2010-08-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Our church spread out vacation bible school days through out the summer this year. Ashley was old enough to attend a few this year. We only ended up being home for one but we had so much fun it didn't matter. They did a mini water park complete with a giant slip-n-slide...soooo fun! She went down water slides, splashed her way through obstacle courses, went on train rides, bedazzled a popsicle stick frame, watched a puppet show and her favorite thing was getting to play on the sunday school playgrounds with water! They provided child care for Colin so I got to spend 3 hours playing with just Ashley, it was the next best thing to Disneyland. After she found her treasure on splash island we picked up Colin and headed to the church cafeteria and had lunch with about 100 other moms and kids- it was loud but fun! I can't wait for next year when she can do every day of VBS.

We ran in to Dr. Bill, Ashley's teacher while I'm at Bible Study. She was so happy to see him, she talks about him almost every day. That great man made her smile even bigger when he sent her a post card the following day. We love him!

Ashley also ran in to her friend Hannah from choir. They're both very excited for choir to start up again.

Beating the Heat with Pools and Popsicles

2010-08-18T23:48:00.000-07:00

This summer was unusually cool, it actually ruined all of my hopes for long days at the pool followed by al fresco dinners because it was just too darn cold. We did have about two weeks of heat and every time I tried to get the kids to the pool something came up and by the time we got home it was nap time for Colin. So I decided to buy a tiny blow up pool and some popsicles so Ashley could have some fun in the hot afternoons while brother napped. When Colin woke up he joined in the fun and quickly became a popsicle snob. He doesn't like otter pops, he doesn't like push pops and he doesn't like the regular fruit flavored popsicles. BUT, he LOVES fudgecicles. I'm talking can't get this in my face fast enough kind of love. This boy plowed through his popcicle and then would look at me with this face like, "Hey lady, where's the rest??" When he started to slow down trying to figure out how to get it off the bottom of the stick Ashley kindly offered to help him. By help, I mean eat the last few pieces off the stick while giving him two courtesy licks. When they were all done Colin had half a melted popsicle on the table, a quarter of it on his face and down his arm and Ashley would always be clean and tidy without a drop on the table. Although we only had a few of them, I loved these hot summer days.

We had Fudgesicles for our first popsicle and pool day

Drumming on the table

We switched to Otter Pops on day two...not Colin's favorite

Such a good big sister helping her brother

That is not the chocolate deliciousness I enjoyed yesterday

What is this?!?

Where's the good stuff mom?

She loves him so much

Trying to escape the pool

The Boy is ONE!

2010-08-09T23:19:00.000-07:00

How did this happen? How did you go from the itty bitty peanut that curled up on my chest for football games to this ball throwing boy? The time went by way too fast Colin, I want a redo! I can't remember life without you but it just doesn't seem like you have been around for a full year. Even though the calendar is telling me it's true, I don't believe it.

When I think of this year with you I just think fun and want to smile. You've been a wonderful baby, more work than your big sis, but still wonderful. I've had so much fun watching your personality blossom, you're a funny guy. You know what you want and when you want something you REALLY want it. You love to dance and listen to music, you bob your head and smile from ear to ear. You LOVE doggies, the dog park might be heaven on earth for you. You point non-stop saying "Dog, dog, dog!". You are serious about your food and even more serious about your beverages. When you start chugging away at your milk or water you are in the zone and there is no getting your attention until your thirst is quenched. You love to be chased around the house and playing peek-a-boo. You're a sneaky guy. If the gate to the stairs is open for some reason you will quickly and quietly make your way checking to see if anyone is watching and then bolt up the stairs laughing the whole way. You are a professional cuddle bug and it makes your 6am wake up time so much more enjoyable. You already know how to flirt and sometimes you like to be coy and pretend that you are bashful. You are a boy down to your bones because you think burps are hilarious and I swear you try to push them out so you can make that proud face. You love to be in the water- whether it's the lake, the beach, pool or bath and you always cry when bath time is over.

I love you with every bit of me and can't believe how lucky I am to have you for my son. I hope you had fun at your Birthday Beach Bash and I look forward to many more birthday lunches at Ruby's with you, sis and daddy.

We love you Colin Boy, to heaven and back,
Love
Mom-Mom
xoxo

The Birthday Party

The Birthday Lunch at Ruby's

Birthday Trip to the Pirate Ship Park

Birthday Dinner and Opening Presents

Neighborhood Friends

2010-07-10T22:57:00.000-07:00

I just started babysitting our neighbors' daughter this last week. She was born on Colin's due date, so these two kids are fascinated with each other. We had so much fun and it was SO much easier than I expected it to be. That might be due to the fact that my last memory of babysitting consisted of 4 kids under the age of 3.5 while I was 6 months pregnant! We played at home and then braved the ugly weather for a trip to the park to play on the swings. Colin was good to his playmate, he shared, he smiled and he even gave her a love tap on the top of her head :-)

Team work

Ashley entertaining the babies

Just chillin' This picture makes me burst out laughing every time!

Ashley was giving the walker a tune up.

Happy Birthday Mom

2010-07-10T22:48:00.000-07:00

My mom's birthday is on the 4th of July, this year we had to celebrate it a little late. She helped Ash pick out her dance clothes and then shooby doobied down to Ruby's. Colin had fun watching the airplanes, Ashley decorated her cardboard Ruby car and mom and I caught up. After lunch the kids got to have baby cones and mom had a birthday sundae. Unfortunately, our waiter complied with my mom's request to not sing to her...booo! I love watching people blush as the whole restaurant stares while waiters sing happy birthday. It was a fun birthday lunch for all of us.

We hope you had a great birthday and have a wonderful year mom! We love you!

It looks like this cone is hypnotizing him. When he was half way done, he got a brain freeze.

Tiny Dancer

2010-07-10T22:23:00.001-07:00

Ashley starts a 3-4 year old dance class on Monday with her BFF Maddy. I think the mommies are more excited than the girlies. We went to get Ashley her dance clothes today, I was SOOO excited.

We tried on all sorts of leotards, some with rhinestones, some with sleeves and some without. The classic Ashley line of the day was delivered in the dressing room when I asked her what her favorite leotards were. She pointed to the short sleeved ones and said, "I like these. I don't like the other ones because I don't want to show my whole body to the world." Please tell me this modesty will stick with her FOREVER!!!! I was so tickled I had to call Jason as soon as we left the store, he was pretty happy :).

When we got home I helped Ashley get all dolled up in her dance clothes and she looked stunning. She was so excited to surprise daddy with her ballerina outfit. I'm not sure of the last time I saw her beaming with this much joy, it was so precious.

"Pssss, mom! Do you think Daddy will think I look pretty, like Angelina Ballerina?"

I told her to show Daddy her BUN, she turned around to show him her bum.

Bustin' a Move!

Colin was loving his sister's dance moves.

4th of July

2010-07-04T23:38:00.000-07:00

We had one JAM PACKED Independence Day this year. We started the morning off with the Ladera Ranch Freedom Run. Jason and I both ran the 5k. I had started training for a 5k in January but there were a lot of things that kept messing up that training so I pretty much went in to this race not knowing if I would be able to make it past the mile mark. I was anxious. We're not talking butterflies in the tummy anxious, I'm talking about sweating bullets, constantly fidgeting and on the verge of throwing up nervous. To add to the nerves, my brother, who was supposed to be my running partner was late. He was going to help me find a good pace and he knows just the right things to say to motivate me. When they started the race and I realized I was on my own I wanted to curl up in a ball and cry. I don't remember being that nervous before. My only goal was to finish the race before the walkers started strolling in. I not only did that but I completed it with a 10 minute mile pace, it's not fast, but it was so much better than I thought I would be able to do. In the end, I was glad I ran by myself because I proved to myself that I could do it all on my own.

That is my "I need a xanex" face right before the race started.

My competition

Jas heading for the finish line. Quick like lightning :)

Hallelujah, I'm still alive and can see the finish line!!!

The Freedom Runners

When we were done with the race my family came back to my place for homemade waffles, bacon, eggs and berries. As soon as we were done eating we headed back out so Ashley could run her 1k. I didn't know what to expect from her. She likes to do everything at a leisurely pace and to be cautious and careful about everything. I also wasn't sure if she could finish the race. Well, this little lady of mine shocked me! She ran the ENTIRE race with her daddy, uncle, auntie, mommy and Colin. She looked like a major celebrity. She was sandwiched between her security guards- Jason and Ian. She had her Auntie Erin cheering for her as she ran and then there was me. The crazy mom pushing the stroller, while turning backwards to take pictures the whole time. As we approached the finish line I felt a lump in my throat and had to fight back tears. I was so proud of her. There were times when she wanted to give up and walk but she kept going and it made me SO, SO, SO proud. I can't imagine what kind of a mess I'll be at her graduations, wedding, etc.

Starting the race

Ashley's best bud, Maddy, starting the race with her Daddy.

The entourage

Finishing the home stretch as fast as she can!

Crossing the finish line with her arms in the air...so cute!

The proud new owner of a race medal (I was wondering where mine was)

Colin was so excited haha

Showing their medals off

What happens after you run a race

After our races were done we headed home for showers and some down time because we had a fun crew of moms, dads and kids heading our way. We enjoyed games of ping pong and the kids rode bikes and scooters. We enjoyed a yummy dinner bbq'd by my hubby- thanks Jas, with the Shwams, Moysas, Rogers and parts of both of our families. It was so fun to see our kids excited for the fireworks as we got ready to head over to the park. Once we all settled in to our blankets we enjoyed the most amazing fireworks ever. The sky lit up in millions of colors while we listened to the crackle of certain fireworks and patriotic music. There is something so magical about cuddling on a blanket with your family and friends to watch the sky light up with glittery bursts of color. It makes you feel loved, it makes you feel at peace and it makes you feel happy and grateful to live in this country we call home. I was reminded of all of those soldiers, past and present, that have protected us, fought for us and sacrificed so much for us to live this life and I just hope they all know we appreciate all that they have done and continue to do.

You make a silly face to mess up the picture and I'm still gonna post it, you should know this by now brother.

A rare shot of Jason and myself. Love you babe!

Watching fireworks with my little man.

This crazy girl fell asleep during fireworks!

After fireworks we headed home to enjoy cake and homemade ice cream as we celebrated Nana's birthday.

Water Park Days

2010-07-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

I decided to take the kids to the water park with Jason's cousin who babysits some little ones. We ended up meeting up with another one of Jason's cousins, his sister and her family, his mom and her parents. It was like a mini Brick family reunion.

Countless hours of playtime happens right here.

Nana doing a photo shoot with Dylan and Colin

My boy

Papa and Siena

Ashley and Cousin Jana

Sis, Suds and Bubs

2010-06-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Sister asked if we could go to the pool today, but it was too cold. June gloom has decided to visit us all month long...boo! It's almost July and I feel like summer hasn't even begun. So, instead of another day at the park or playing cars and babies in the house we decided to play in the tub. There were bubbles, toys, and fancy hairdos. Colin splashed for almost an hour while Ashley floated on her back, played with her toys in an imaginary world and oh yeah...asked a million questions, but that's nothing new. Hauser watched them both like the good dog he is and looked like he wanted to jump right in, which is funny because he HATES his baths.

Love Colin's face in this one, he doesn't know what to make of his doggy trying to get in the tub.

It was a fun way to mix up our play time but the best part was both kids were squeaky clean and smelled like babies and I got to pretend for just a moment that they were itty bitty again. Ten minutes later I re-organized the linen closet and got a whiff of Dreft (another favorite scent) and realized these kids don't smell like Dreft in their jammies anymore because they're no longer babies. That's when I shed a few tears. Then I walked two feet to Ashley's room and saw this.

Yup, I was right, they're no longer babies, but I guess I'm okay with that because sis feeding bubs pretend food is just as sweet as itty bitty babies in jammies that smell like Dreft.

They are a big sister and little brother playing together and making the world's biggest mess. I heart them!

Brother & Sister

2010-06-26T16:18:00.000-07:00

The love these two have for each other grows by leaps and bounds each day, it is so fun to watch.

Ashley took Colin for his first car ride, it was so cute. Colin had fun, but was taking it all very seriously and only cracked a few smiles. Sister, was so proud and had so much fun giving Colin a tour of our street as she held him close. Then he ripped off the sticker that looks like a radio and started to eat it, at dinner she shared with us that Colin doing this was the least favorite part of her day, I laughed. I love these sweet faces to pieces.

This girl

2010-06-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

This girl lights up my life. She brings me so much joy and love and makes me feel like my life has a great purpose. The weekend cuddles in bed while we wake up to a cartoon remind me of how fun it was to be a kid and to be so excited for those Saturday cartoons. My heart skips a beat every time we are out running errands and she stops to say, "Mommy, I just love you so much." I almost cry every time she does it because I know she means it with all of her heart and I just feel so lucky to have her love. She's growing up now, it makes my stomach hurt when I think about it. My baby isn't a baby anymore, she can finish puzzles by herself, recognize words in books, she can spell the names of her family members, she can count to 100 and she can swing all by herself. I'm happy and excited to watch her grow but a part of me wants to hop in a homemade time machine and go back to that cold January morning when we brought her home from the hospital. When Jason filmed me as I held her walking in the house and showed her the bedroom I labored over for months waiting for the day she would come home. I don't know how we got to this place where her body seems almost as long as her twin bed, where we bought her bathing suit in the "big girl" section of Target and where she sings country songs in the car with me and she knows all the words. I'm not sure how time flew by so quickly but it did and I'm just trying to capture every moment and memory as each day passes. And as long as she is living under the same roof as I am I will always sneak in to give her one last kiss at night, cover her up so she's nice and warm and whisper in her ear, "Mommy loves you princess, all the way to heaven and back."

Father's Day

2010-06-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

4 Generations of Brick Men (they are the oldest Brick boys of their generation) We enjoyed a fun and relaxing Father's Day with both of our dads and families. Probably one of the best we've ever celebrated, it was so special.

We started the morning off with my Dad, brother and sister at Corky's for breakfast. After fun story telling, walks down memory lane and smiles filled with love being exchanged we went to my dad's house to watch MMA fights and to play pool. It was fun to relax, laugh and just enjoy being together. I'm thankful for my dad. I'm thankful for his love, advice and care. We talk every morning on the phone, sometimes it's about nothing, sometimes it's about everything. He's always there to give advice, to make me smile and laugh if I'm feeling down and I know he loves me. I'm thankful for the relationship and love he shares with my husband and children. I'm thankful for him.

Dad was so excited he crushed the boys in pool. He said it was the best father's day gift ever! LOL

A Sleepy Boy

After time with my family we went to the "Brick Gathering" at one of Jason's relatives' house and the kiddos enjoyed time in the pool, the grown ups had fun catching up and the dads had fun watching golf. Babies were passed around, stories were shared and love was present. I'm thankful for my father-in-law and the way he showed Jason how to be an active parent and how to love and give with a big heart. After cupcakes and a final dip in the pool we dried off and headed home where Dad and Ash fell asleep within 2 minutes of sitting on the couch. It was a wonderful day.

The Older Brick Boys

The Brick Family Father's Day Gathering

She was "SOOOO TIRED and COLD" But some how she managed to find the strength to eat a cupcake :-)

What happens when you have too much fun on Father's Day (it was only 7:30)

A Father's Day Gift

2010-06-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

Every Father's Day I always feel a little sad when I hear the jokes about how everyone spends months planning gifts and getaways for mother's day but when Father's Day rolls around people decide any card will do and the dads get stuck with a gift from the pharmacy that you'd find on an infomercial that runs in the wee hours of the morning. Moms have a hard job, but so do the dads. Dads go to work everyday trying their best to stand out, to finish their projects before the big deadline, to land a big client and to bring home a paycheck to provide for their family. When they walk in the house we try to greet them with hugs and kisses, but sometimes it's a quick peck on the cheek as we change a diaper, prepare dinner or bathe our children. After a long day at work a Dad wants to melt in to the couch and turn his brain off but instead he musters up the energy to wrestle with the dog, play Barbies with the girl and tickle the boy until he runs out of laughter. Then he helps clean up the dinner mess, takes out the trash, entertains children while pajamas are laid out and a bottle is made. He is asked about 100 questions while he tries to watch Jeopardy, "why is the screen blue? Why didn't he win that one? Why does he have a mustache? Is that a mustache or a beard?... He answers the questions happily, despite the fact that his brain just wants to slip into a comatose state. After kids are put to bed he tries so hard to keep his eyes open to watch some silly show his wife likes just so they can spend time together. When the show is over he takes the dog out for one last potty trip and does a face plant in bed, only to wake up a few hours later to do it all over again.

All of the dads I know are amazing, they are hands on, they smother their children with love, they love their wifes dearly and they strive to better the life they give their family. The pressure and stress a daddy carries to provide for a family is quite a load and most of the time these dads do it effortlessly.

So, for this Father's Day I decided to break a sweat and put a little elbow grease in my gift for Jason, so he could check one more thing off his "To Do" list and maybe have a little extra time to watch a show he loves or to sneak in a surf session. Jason has wanted to paint our garage since the day we moved in, I always thought it was kind of silly because it's a garage, but I guess it's the same as me wanting an organized pantry...it's our space and it's nice to have it feel a little special. Jason was working on a garage floor in Rancho Mirage and I was home with two sick kids, the two sick kids part almost made me back out of this plan a few times, but I couldn't give up because Jason always works so hard for us. About half way through taping off the garage I thought to myself, "this is a horrible idea". I didn't have a ladder, I was working with a three foot step stool that barely got me high enough to reach the ceiling, so my calf muscles were burning by the end of the night. At around midnight I finished cutting in the edges and again was regretting this gift I had thought up, I had no idea how I was going to get it finished.

The next morning I woke up early and started working away, when Ashley came down crying because she didn't get to paint. I remembered it was Father's Day so she should participate...again, about 10 minutes in to it all, I was regretting my decisions. A 4 year old likes to lay it on thick, so as she painted I followed behind trying to get rid of drip marks and spread the paint out. I also had the great idea to write a message on the wall for Jason, take a picture and then paint over it. For any of you moms that get a "great idea" like this, don't do it! It took 6 coats of paint to cover up the message...bad, bad idea. Luckily, the kids being sick was a blessing because they slept A LOT which meant more time for me to paint. I ended the day with throbbing hands and the beginning of callouses on my hands- lovely! But I could live with all of that because I had finished the painting.

When I woke up the next morning I thought I would just rip off the tape and put everything back where it went. WRONG! Oh, how the morning light can highlight all of your painting imperfections. So I went for round two with my roller and oh the pain! My poor hands were not ready for day two of painting. Thankfully there was only about an hour of painting to be done and then I started ripping off tape and putting things back. I was so excited and proud of myself. All I had left to do that day was play with the kids and wait for my hubby to get home.

Jas, got home really late, I say this so he doesn't look bad hehe. When he came home I greeted him in the garage with a BIG smile. At first he assumed I was just very excited to have him home, then the smile made him wonder what was going on. I told him his Father's day present was in the garage, he looked around for a good 60-90 seconds and then FINALLY he noticed and was so excited. I'm glad he noticed, because it was late and I was tired and I think I might have been a little cranky if he didn't notice.

To the best dad I know...Happy Father's Day babe!

2010-06-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

7 Years

2010-06-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

Jason and I celebrated our 7th anniversary, that sounds like a long time, but it feels like it has gone by SO fast! To be honest, we didn't really get to celebrate, we're still waiting to do that. We were on the tale end of being sick, didn't have a sitter and were just pooped. So we're waiting for the perfect day to celebrate, hopefully it comes sooner than later because I need a date night!

Jas- Thank you for being my husband. I know I can count on you to be there for me, to be a listening ear, a person to bounce ideas off of, a shoulder to cry on, someone to motivate me and a partner in everyday life. You have not only been a wonderful husband to me but you have also been my best friend. You have walked hand in hand with me through the ups and downs of these seven years and it is so comforting to know that I always have you to run to. We have had so much fun since we were married and I can't wait to see what forever has in store for us.

I think about our first date and I was nervous and excited. I think about the day we moved away for college and I was a little scared...excited, but scared. I think about the night you proposed to me and I was shocked and excited and a little overwhelmed. But when I think about the day I walked down that aisle to become Mrs. Brick I had no insecurities, no nervousness and I wasn't scared at all. I was confident, happy and certain that this would be the best decision I could ever make. I've always known you were the one for me.

I love you.

Wrap Party

2010-06-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

A week after the big performance all of the choir groups got together for a wrap party. They gulped down root beer floats, ate pieces of pizza as big as their heads and watched a veggie tale movie. They had a lot of fun.

Miss Amy and Ashley. This woman is amazing, she has a beautiful voice, an incredible amount of patience and a heart that overflows with love for each of these kids.

School of Life Performance

2010-05-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

For the spring session of Little Lambs (kids choir at church) the kids got to open the School of Life performance and sing a song with the big kids half way through the musical. Ashley was SO excited to perform with the "big kids" on the stage in the "sankshiary" (sanctuary). The kids were so cute as they opened the show signing and singing, Jesus Loves Me, He's Got the Whole World and This Little Light of Mine. I was impressed to see 30 3-5 year olds know all of the words and motions, it was adorable! They also sang a cute song about bugs with the big kids. That was Ashley's favorite part. I was so amazed at how confident Ash was on the stage, that sort of thing has always made me nervous.

Jason and I were proud of Ashley for doing so well in her 3 months of practice and the big finale, so we decided to take her out for a treat. We went to Claim Jumper and before we got in we told her she could pick any dessert she wants. We had to wait for a table for a few minutes and while we were waiting Ashley found the dessert case and asked a million questions about each one. When we sat down the waiter came over and asked what we wanted and Ashley started describing what she wanted. I just started to crack up because our pint sized daughter wanted the chocolate eclair! The waiter looked like his eye balls were about to fall out of their sockets and he looked at us like we were crazy. When the dessert arrived Ashley giggled with excitement as she eyed the football sized eclair covered in chocolate and whipped cream (her favorite!) After about 6 bites she was done and left mom and dad with the monumental task of trying to make a dent in the dessert. It was a special night.

Walking to the green room with Daddy.

Playing Ring Around the Rosey with her choir friends.

Organizing all of the kids to get to the stage.

Singing This Little Light of Mine

Singing the Bug Song

Ta Da!

Playing with Dad

Heaven on a Plate (I love this face because she is clearly excited, but you can tell she is a little nervous about the HUGE size)

Mommy Gave her a whipped cream nose

Ashley got me back

Our Mini Vacation in Paradise

2010-05-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

We were blessed with the most wonderful gift from one of Jason's clients, she offered us a weekend at her vacation home on the beach. Just hearing those words- vacation & beach made me do a happy dance when Jason told me. We packed up our things and headed to the beach for some fun in the sun and sand. We lucked out with the sun on Friday but the rest of the weekend was a little gloomy, yet we still managed to enjoy every second and felt like we had won the lottery. The kids had a blast building sand castles, watching the waves and throwing rocks for Hauser to fetch. We played scrabble, Jenga and Blockhead when it was chilly outside and had so much fun. Jason and I were able to enjoy some time just hanging out on the beach while the kids napped in the house and Hauser had a blast playing in the surf.

Daddy made this face whenever Ashley chose a piece to move :-)

Ashley begged to go kayaking, she told us how much she would love it and how it would be so much fun, so Daddy finally took her and they had a wipeout. When Jason carried her out of the water I asked how she liked kayaking and she said, "It's not really my favorite. I don't think I like it very much." I think I would have said the same thing if I had wiped out. She is a brave girl.

A bowl of cereal while she watched the waves...she was happy.

My teething Monster (Thanks for the banana toothbrush teether Jenny!)

It was so cool because these two were looking for boats and pirate ships for a good thirty minutes and then they found one! The Pilgrim was out to sea and it was so cool to see how excited Ashley was to find a pirate ship!

Park Day

2010-05-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

Ash and I decided to start exploring all of the parks around us. The only problem is we've only made it to one park so far because Ashley wants to keep going back.

Saying hi to the boys

Being a monkey on the monkey bars

Happy Birthday Erin!

2010-05-04T10:16:00.000-07:00

For my sister, Erin's, birthday we all went to Farrell's for some old fashioned fun. It was loud but it was fun. Colin had a BLAST watching the drums, piano and all of the singing and dancing, he stayed up two hours past his bed time, took a lick of an ice cream sundae spoon (and wanted more), danced and smiled the night away. Ashley had fun watching it all and of course, being with her Auntie. They told jokes, played tic tac toe and gave lots of hugs. I had fun watching the kids and of course watching my sister turn bright red when they made her stand up while the whole restaurant sang happy birthday to her...loved it!!

Happy Birthday Erin, we love you and hope it's a great year for you!

Putting on her birthday badge

Having so much fun

He did a whole lot of dancing all night

Ash checking out the piano that plays music all by itself!

Mortified as they came to the table with drums, ice cream sundaes and birthday songs!

Announcing the big birthday!

Ashley loved it just as much as her mommy

I'm pretty sure at this point she wanted to kill me for telling them it was her birthday.

Part of the singing crew

Ashley doing a little finger dancing

Making a wish

Chocolate Sundae face :-)

Auntie got me back for all the torture I put her through when she bought Ashley a kazoo!

Welcome to the World Siena!

2010-05-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

We are now the proud Auntie, Uncle and Cousins of our first niece, Siena Juliette. Jason's sister, Jen, delivered her on the morning of May 3rd and we are so happy for them. The delivery was amazing and both mom and baby are doing great and big brother Dylan is super excited.

Waiting for Siena's arrival with the kids.

She's here!

The beginning of a special relationship for brother and sister.

My Boys

2010-05-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

A Patch of Grass

2010-05-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Jason has been dying to fill a dirt patch on our patio with something pretty and he finally got the job done with some fake grass. It's a TINY patch but it looks so much prettier now that there is grass in there. Ashley helped Dad and Colin and I watched them working hard.

I love this picture. They are both using their Rainbow sandals to tap the dirt and Ashley looks like a professional plumber.

He'll make a great supervisor one day

Taste of Ladera

2010-05-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

Life has been a little busy around here so when the Taste of Ladera rolled around we weren't even sure if we were going to be able to go. After hearing the music, seeing the fun and listening to Ashley ask when she would get to go to the party ALL DAY Saturday we decided we would figure out a way for her to go on Sunday. Jason and Ashley had a little father daughter date while I stayed home to work on the house and Colin took a much needed nap. They had a blast! Ashley was brave and tried new things, she made friends with Jr. High girls (YIKES!) and Dad and daughter had some fun bonding time.

So proud of herself for going across the whole ladder!

She loved being the center of attention with the "big girls"

Santa Barbara to Dana Point

2010-04-24T15:30:00.001-07:00

This morning we went to Irvine in hopes of seeing my brother finish his 6 mile leg of the Ragnar Relay which starts in Santa Barbara. Each team runs from Santa Barbara to Dana Point taking turns along the way. We were lucky enough to pull out of a shopping center as he was running the last mile of the 20 miles he contributed to the race. We decided to drive in the bike lane and cheer him on for that last mile. I couldn't believe how much energy he still had after running so far. He still had time to smile, say hi and even strike a tea pot pose haha. It was a really fun thing to see him do and to get to give him a hug at the end. We're so proud of you Ian, you looked great and your team didn't stop talking about how great you did. I'm impressed and even more impressed that you're running the La Jolla 1/2 marathon tomorrow...geeez!

How he still had energy to goof off and pose like a teapot (random) I'm not sure. If it were me, I'm pretty sure I would have been on my hands and knees crawling up the hill at mile 20.

My handsome brother is a running stud.

Ashley was so excited to cheer for Uncle Ian and so proud of him when he finished.

Golfing with Gramps

2010-04-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

Today was my Dad's birthday so I thought it would be fun for Ashley and him to golf at the putting greens in our neighborhood. We've been to the park before but never remembered to bring golf stuff with us. Ash had a blast putting from hole to hole and was so proud when she sank each ball. Gramps gave some much needed basic golf lessons and Colin watched it all with a drooling smile (does the drool ever stop??) Then Dad and I soaked up some sun, enjoying the view while Ashley made a friend at the park and Colin took a snooze. We ended our time with lunch together and talked and talked and talked. It was a great way to just spend time with Dad/Gramps and fun was had by all.

Happy Birthday Dad/Gramps, we hope you have a special day! Thank you for being such a great Dad, Father-in-law, Grandpa and Doggy Grandpa to us all. We love you!

Being Grandpa's Caddy

Love these smiles!

A much needed golf lesson.

Seriously watching sister's golf game

Laughing at his sister

Making silly faces at Mom

I can't get enough of this sweet face

Belly Sleep

2010-04-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

This boy has started sleeping on his belly, it brings back so many memories of when Ashley was just a baby.

Park Date with the Shwams

2010-04-07T11:08:00.000-07:00

We had a little play date with our good friends, Celina, Maddy and Brody. The kids had fun swinging in the swings together (all four kids in two swings!) The girls had fun playing with other little girls at the park, jumping rope and sliding down the slides a million times. Brody played baseball and golf and Colin oversaw the whole operation. We had a Happy Meal picnic with our friends and then played a little more. Thanks for such a fun day at the park C, Mads and Brod, we love you!

Easter Eggs with Ash

2010-04-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

Ashley dyed the Easter eggs all by herself this year and was so proud.

My Big Girl

Hard at Work

So Proud of herself!

The masterpieces (Can you tell we're working on patterns??)

The picture she said we just had to take

Easter Dinner

2010-04-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

I know, by now you're thinking how many Easter events can one person have? Well, there's a TON for us. I cooked Easter dinner for my little family and my Dad. It was nice to be at home, just relaxing and enjoying each other. We enjoyed a yummy dinner, gave Grandpa a little Easter prize and then Jas and I did a little something special for our girl. Do you know that Baskin Robbins commercial for ice cream cakes? If you do you probably think it's the most obnoxious commercial on tv, most people do, but not our Ashley. She has been obsessed with that commercial for an entire year! Every time it comes on she will run from wherever she is and ask us to rewind it so she can see the entire commercial and sing along with it. We've been looking for the perfect time to get an ice cream cake and figured Easter would be fun. The best part was they had a cake that looked like a purple easter bunny. Purple! How could it get any better?! We told her we had a special dessert and she guessed from cookies to popsicles and finally gave up. We had her cover her eyes and then Jason brought the cake in and she went crazy! She sang the song about 5 times and then admired her cake for about 5 minutes before asking for a taste. It was a fun way to end the night.

Easter with the Brick Family

2010-04-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

After Easter with Jason's family we headed up the street to spend Easter with the extended Brick Family. The kids got to enjoy yet another Easter Egg hunt! Ashley had a blast with all of her cousins and was very excited to see her cousin Cody again, it's been a while. Colin slept through the whole thing :-)

Gathering the kids for the egg hunt

The hunt is on!

Great Grandma giving Ashley a hint

The little cousins, they're not looking so little anymore!

An added bonus...bubbles!

Giving Cody a bubble blowing lesson

Easter at Grandma and Grandpa Maddy Dog's House

2010-04-04T10:41:00.001-07:00

After church we headed to Jason's parents' house for lunch and an Easter egg hunt for the kids. Ashley and her cousin Dylan were so excited for the egg hunt. Once the door was open those two ran out as fast as they could. After the egg hunt Ash and Dylan had so much fun opening the eggs to find candy and stickers. They spent about 15 minutes sitting in the grass coating each other in stickers. Well, to be honest, Dylan spent 15 minutes coating Ashley in stickers as she opened her eggs and found more stickers, but she didn't mind, she had fun seeing what he had adorned her with. We made an attempt to take some family pictures but that failed miserably. Between the neighbors and their dogs, Colin teething and loads of stickers waiting to be found inside those Easter eggs the photo session was kind of a bust.

Easter Church

2010-04-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

This Easter was the 30th anniversary of our church so they decided to celebrate in a big way...at Angel Stadium. We were hesitant about going because it's a long time for little ones to sit without being able to wiggle but we decided to bite the bullet and join in the celebration. To make sure we avoided the traffic and the possibility of being stuck in traffic with a crying baby we arrived at 7:30 with McDonald's breakfast in hand and cute kids in their jammies. Ash and Colin got to eat their breakfast out of the trunk of our car, they thought it was pretty fun. After breakfast we changed the kiddos and headed in to the stadium. We had fun playing games with our section, Ashley did some dancing, Colin took a snooze and we chatted with our family. The kids were great until about the last 20 minutes Colin was done, so Jason, being the wonderful husband he is took him for a walk. On the drive home Ashley announced that Jesus wasn't in her heart because he went to his friend's house, we burst out laughing. I tried to explain that He was everywhere but it just wasn't making sense to her, so I guess that's a discussion for another day. It was a fun and special Easter service that I'm glad we didn't miss. Thank you Ash and Colin for being such well behaved angels, you made me one proud mama.

Ummm, hey guys, I'm awake! FEED ME!

I'm so grateful he's my man :-)

A serious dance face

My family, doing what they do before the service started.

Our Easter Eve

2010-04-04T10:08:00.000-07:00

Somehow that clever little Easter Bunny knew our Easter Day was going to be busy, busy, busy so he managed to sneak in the house and hide eggs and goody bags while we were upstairs talking to Daddy before dinner. Ashley had so much fun finding her eggs and the prizes for her and Colin. What she was most excited about was that the Easter Bunny brought the whole family rainbow sandals, he's so smart!

My little helper

2010-04-04T09:56:00.000-07:00

This Easter we decided to help out some of the families that are having a hard time. Ashley and I went to the store to buy some things to fill our church's food pantry bags. Ashley was so excited to help "the people". When we got home she stuffed the bags all by herself. True to form this princess had to make sure that everything was packed perfectly and that each bag was packed exactly the same way, so the bag packing ended up being about an hour long project.

Hauser was right there cheering Ashley on :-)

Our New Park

2010-04-02T14:49:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood recently had a new park built so we just had to go check it out. The views are AMAZING and the putting green is super fun for the kids and adults. Ashley had a blast and Colin had fun as he watched his big sister run around giggling and playing.

My Happy Boy!

She looks so big in this picture :-(

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Double WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

Making sure the solar system is in order

The beautiful putting green

The View of Saddleback Mountain

Performing for mom and dad

Ta-Daaaa!

Cuteness!

Cousins, Cousins and MORE Cousins!

2010-03-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

After our Easter Extravaganza Papa took the girls for a special afternoon and I took Colin to my sister-in-law, Jen's, baby shower. We had so much fun meeting some of our new cousins. Jason's cousins Heather, Jaime and Danielle all had babies within a month of each other, now we're just waiting on Jen's daughter, Siena. We were lucky enough to meet Addison, Heather's daughter, and Carter, Jaime's son. Colin had fun checking them out, I'm sure he felt cool being the big boy for once :-)

Easter in Ladera

2010-03-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

Every year we look forward to all of the wonderful celebrations our community has and one of our favorites is the Easter celebration. It's a fun day filled with egg hunts, bouncy houses, treats and time with family and friends. This year Jason was out of town so I took Ashley and Colin with Papa and Ashley's cousin Ellie from Fresno. They had a blast! They both walked away with about 40 Easter eggs filled with stickers, candy and little toys. The girls did the surf's up obstacle course, they bounced like little jumping beans in the bounce house and crawled like critters in the caterpillar. When we were all done Papa bought a bag of Kettle corn, holy moly, the girls thought they had died and gone to heaven. It was so cute because he just held it behind his back and the girls followed closely so they could pluck popcorn out of the bag like little duckies as we walked home.

Ellie had just tossed her shoes on the stroller, but when she saw how Ashley put hers on there she came back and spent a good minute getting her shoes to sit just like Ashley's. BTW, are those the cutest chubby baby feet you've ever seen?? I think so :-)

This is by far the biggest fluff ball of a dog I have EVER seen!

Papa's little duckies

March Day in the Park

2010-03-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

We packed up the kids and Hauser for an afternoon in the park. Daddy raced Hauser, Ash and Dad flew kites, Colin drooled and smiled, Ashley threw balls for Hauser, and Mom made Ash and Colin have a photo shoot. It was simple and special all at the same time.

Preparing for Flight

If only everyone saw the 15 pictures I took to get this ONE decent shot. They included hair pulling, spitting up, whining and falling over.

Daddy Love

My Four Loves

Chubby Baby Feet Just Begging for A Kiss

Ash and Hauser

Hmmm, Grass. He quickly realized he didn't really like it.

Tickle Time

Bathing Babes

2010-03-05T14:58:00.000-08:00

When we had Ashley we had the perfect set up for her to take a bath in the kitchen sink until she was old enough to sit in the bath on her own, at our new place it's very different. It never occurred to me that I should get Colin a bath seat until one day I had had enough of the back breaking maneuver I was doing to give the poor boy a bath, not to mention the time it took to give two kids separate baths. As soon as it hit me we ran to the store and solved our problems. When these two are in the bath together it's nothing but giggles and smiles. Colin loves to chew on duckies while he watches sis play with the toys. Watching both of my babes take a bath together really reminded me that I have two children, it is now one of my favorite parts of the day.

Cuddle Buddies

2010-03-01T14:23:00.000-08:00

Do you think these two were tired????

Bedtime Smiles

2010-03-01T10:30:00.000-08:00

When I put Ashley to bed last night I was cuddling with her and we were just talking (one of my favorite things in life). Out of the blue she said, "Mommy, do you know who really, really, really, really loves me??" I said, "Who?" she responded, "God!" My heart skipped a few beats and was instantly warm and fuzzy. There is no greater joy than for me to hear that my daughter knows she is loved by God. This made me especially happy because two weeks ago she had a rough day and ended the day with tears. I recommended that she say a prayer and she told me she thought God wouldn't hear her because he forgot about her. So I read her some stories from her Bible to remind her how much God loves her and how he has never forgotten about her and never will, I still went to bed crying that night, my heart ached. Hearing her say God loved her last night was an answer to my prayers.

The funny part was that she ended the conversation like this...
Ashley: Mom, I really wish Jesus was a girl and God was a boy.
Me: (kind of giggling) Why?
Ashley: Because then I would have a girl Jesus and a boy God and it would be more fun.
Me: Why would it be more fun?
Ashley: Because I like to color and paint with girls and I like to ride bikes with boys silly!

We ended the night with a good laugh and a big squeeze, a wonderful way to end the weekend.

The funny things she says

2010-02-20T10:56:00.000-08:00

Ashley is at a phase where her vocabulary is expanding exponentially each day. The words that come out of such a tiny person make me crack up and the questions never stop. Here's a few of our conversations this week...

Driving in the car-
Ash: Mom, what does engaged mean?
Me: Before you get married a special man that you love will get down on one knee and ask you to be his wife. He'll give you a ring to promise that you'll get married.
Ash: What happens when you get married?
Me: You promise to love your husband forever and ever.
Ash: But when do you wear your white dress?
Me: When you promise to love your husband forever and ever.
Ash: Oh mom, I can't wait to be engaged

I thought to myself, "Did I really just have that conversation with my 4 year old?" Better with me than Daddy haha.

About two seconds later...
Ash: Mom, what does enchanted mean?
Me: Something magical and special.
Ash: Am I enchanted?
Me: Absolutely! You are enchanting
Ash: Oh good, cause I really wanted to be enchanted.

I really wish I knew what she was thinking about when she has these words pop in to her brain.

This morning she woke up and came downstairs where Colin and I were playing. These were her thoughts:
Ash: Mom, you know all of this racket you and Colin are making really woke me up and I was trying to finish my dream. Next time you should really try not to make so much racket.
Me: Sorry we woke you up but I would like it if you wouldn't say that so bossy.
Ash: Don't worry mom, I'm not being bossy, I'm just telling you next time you shouldn't make such humongous noises that wake me up in my dreams.
Me: Instead of being bossy by telling me how about you just ask me to please try to play quieter games with Colin while you are sleeping.
Ash: That would be a great idea, maybe you guys can use your imagination to play with pretend toys.

She had that problem solved real quick!

I love this girl!

Spoiled Rotten

2010-02-16T07:40:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling kind of guilty after reading facebook posts of friends around the country that are smothered in snow and feeling the chill of the winter air. We are so spoiled here. Yesterday it was so gorgeous and warm that I took the kids to the water park and pool and it's the middle of February!

Ashley had so much fun making friends and floating around the kiddie pool. And Colin got to have his first swim! I plopped him in the water and he let out a giggle then stood up and splashed in the water for 45 minutes. The only reason I took him out was to feed him his bottle, I think he would have stayed in until his legs couldn't hold himself up anymore.

Being in the warm sun, hearing kids laugh and giggle and the splashing of the water reminded me of summer and how fun this summer will be with two kids...I can't wait!

This is what happens after a hard day of work. You fall asleep while mom is changing you and go to bed in nothing but a diaper :-)

Salty Air Out at Sea

2010-02-15T14:07:00.000-08:00

We've been lucky enough to enjoy a few days out on the open ocean and the kids have loved it just about as much as Jason and I. We saw dolphins and whales and just enjoyed the salty wind blowing through our hair. We've been up to Newport Harbor, checked out some of Jason's old projects along the coast, watched surfers at Salt Creek, watched the waves crash next to the San Clemente Pier in the morning and just enjoyed rocking in the boat. Ashley is obsessed and Colin couldn't be happier to have the wind on his face, once the boat stops he cries, just like his sister used to do on the river boats. I don't think I've ever seen my hubby more at peace than when we've been out to sea and all of those happy people being around me makes me feel like I've died and gone to heaven. Just a few pictures from a few of our trips...

Getting the boat ready...I heart him!

Waiting patiently for her boat ride

Captain Ashley

My Boys, I love, love, LOVE these boys!

Riding on a boat can make for some tired kids.

Babysitting Dylan

2010-02-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

Since we celebrated Valentine's Day early this year we were able to help out Jason's sister and husband by babysitting their son Dylan while they had a special night out. Dylan and Ashley had so much fun, they chased a balloon around, had tickle wars, ate dinner, blew out birthday candles, played "work" and Colin watched it all wondering what they were doing.

A much needed water break...

which lead to a tickle war!

They called "work"

Colin seemed very confused by it all

SOOOO Funny!

This had me cracking up!

Valentine's Day dessert...wondering why we have candles?? Dylan thought he was going to a birthday party, so we let him believe it was a birthday party.

Colin checking to see what Dad thinks of it all

"Working" on the computer

He said he was getting ready for work.

My Valentine

2010-02-13T21:38:00.000-08:00

Jason and I celebrated Valentine's Day a little early this year. We dropped the kids off with Jason's parents Friday night and enjoyed a yummy dinner. It was so nice to be on a date with my love, it's been WAY TOO LONG. This is the second time we've had time together sans children since Colin's birth. It was so nice to enjoy dinner holding hands, laughing and worrying about feeding no one but ourselves. Then we headed home to catch up on our shows and we laughed and laughed together. We woke up early to enjoy breakfast and some time down in Dana Point together and it was so pretty. I am so lucky to be married to my best friend who loves and supports me no matter what. I'm so thankful we always have fun together no matter what we do and that those butterflies from when we first met are still there. Thank you for a wonderful Valentine's day Jas, I loved every minute of it.

A Boy and His Food

2010-02-09T23:13:00.000-08:00

In some ways Colin and Ashley are identical, in other ways they are polar opposites. We started Ashley on baby food at 4 months and once we got passed the idea of force feeding her the rice cereal she despised she was in heaven. There wasn't a veggie or fruit she didn't love. Ok, I just lied, she wasn't a fan of peas, but other than that she LOVED her food. When we first started feeding her it was a mess for about two days but then she quickly learned how to lick her spoon clean.

Colin on the other hand was quite the opposite. We tried feeding Colin rice cereal and he literally gagged every time we tried feeding it to him but I thought that was normal because Ash didn't like it either. I was so excited to give him real baby food because he seemed to love eating so much. The kid proved me wrong and would spit out every ounce of food or just let it all drool out of his mouth. He seemed to really dislike the flavor and the whole concept of swallowing the food seemed lost on him. Our pediatrician had warned me that all kids are different and one of his started eating at 4 months and the other at 6 months so I wasn't concerned. I continued to try baby food for a few days and we made absolutely NO progress. I waited another two weeks until trying again, same results. This became the pattern, until the last week- the week before he turned 6 months. I had gotten so used to having food sprayed all over me, the high chair and my son so when I gave him a spoon of squash and nothing came back out at me I was shocked. So shocked and happy that we did a happy dance right then and there. Ever since that day our boy has plowed through his food at each meal. His favorite thing for dessert is his spoon :-)

Happy 6 Months Colin!

2010-02-09T22:04:00.000-08:00

Colin Boy- I can't believe you are 6 whole months today! In one way it doesn't seem like you've been here for 6 months and in another way I feel like I've known you forever. Our family is SO in love with you. Sis loves to make you smile and show you how all of your fun toys work, she is always so proud of you when you roll over and giggle and she is dying to teach you to talk and walk. Daddy loves his little man, he loves to play with you and to hold you high in the sky which you LOVE. Hauser loves to lick your hands and toes and it always makes you smile and giggle. I just love you to pieces. I love snuggling with you, I love it when you rub my face while you drink your bottle and I love the huge grin you get on your face when I say Mama. Today you woke up looking bigger and just acting so much older which is fun, but don't get carried away and grow up too fast on me. You are just like your sister and love to be on your back, which means I'm always trying to get you to be happy on your belly and sitting up- this is the only time you aren't my biggest fan :-( You love rolling over until you realize it puts you on your belly and you LOVE to stand. Sometimes I try to get you to sit and you lock your legs so it's nearly impossible. You love squash and sweet potatoes and absolutely hate carrots, how is that possible?? They are so yummy. You've never liked rice cereal, just like your sister (I don't blame you, it looks nasty). I gave you green beans for the first time today and you inhaled them with the biggest smile.

I am so proud of the little boy that you are and couldn't be happier that you are part of our family. You have filled our home with smiles and laughter and have made all of our hearts double in size. Happy 6 months Big Boy! We love you!

Sleepover with Daddy

2010-01-30T09:15:00.000-08:00

Ashley and Jas had a special date...a sleepover on my dad's fishing boat. Ashley was SO excited. Actually, she was SOOOOOOOOO excited! She talked about it for DAYS before and after their date night. She got to go grocery shopping with Daddy to pick out some food to eat on the boat, then they played games and watched movies while eating popcorn. In the morning they had a pancake breakfast on the boat and then headed out for a little boat ride. As you can see, she thought she hit the jackpot. There's nothing she loves more than special time with her Dad and I think she has the boating bug like mom and dad.

A Trip to the REAL Snow

2010-01-24T22:54:00.000-08:00

One of Ashley's Birthday gifts was a BIG surprise...we took her to the mountains to play in the snow. The night before we left I checked the road conditions only to find that just about every mountain was closed because of rock slides, an over abundance of snow or they were already too crowded. I sat at the computer with a huge knot in my gut trying to figure out how to make this snow day a reality. Finally, I came up with Mt. Baldy and from what I read online it was all clear to drive up and they weren't even requiring chains. I was so happy, I figured we would have the whole mountain to ourselves because who goes to Mt. Baldy?? WRONG!!! Apparently everyone goes to Mt. Baldy when all of the other mountains are closed. We drove all the way out there and right when we started to see evidence that a winter storm had tumbled through the mountain we were stopped by the police and told only people with reservations or residents were allowed up because the mountain was full at 6 am!!! We drove away and I turned around to see my daughter absolutely heartbroken, something I had never seen before. You could tell she was trying with all her might to hold back the tears. Remember that we just drove 90 minutes talking all about how to make snow angels, having snow ball fights and sledding. Jason and I frantically started thinking of other options and making phone calls for ideas. We decided to drive towards Wrightwood to see if we could at least find a pile of snow on the side of the road to appease the princess until another time. We drove, actually, drove is definitely the wrong word, we slowly rolled through a TON of traffic until we finally started to see some snow on the ground. Ashley instantly wanted to get out of the car but of course Jason and I wanted to press on to find the "perfect snow" for our girl. We ended up right outside the parking lot to Mountain High and had a blast playing in knee high powder for hours. We made snow angels, had MANY snow ball fights filled with giggles, we built the cutest little snowman and we rode our sleds down some big hills (while doing this I realized I'm a huge chicken because there were some hills Ashley went down that were too "scary" for me). The three of us ended up having an amazing time playing like little kids. We finally decided to leave and Ashley managed to stay awake for a whole 15 minutes and didn't wake up for nearly 4 hours! It was a great way to end Ashley's Birthday celebration. (Sorry there are so many pictures, I had a hard time picking out of the 247 I took!)

Getting Ready for the SNOW!!

Trying to hike through the DEEP snow

So brave going all by herself

A Happy Girl

caught in the act of starting a snowball fight...she had mischief written all over that face!

Ashley's personal chair lift

Mommy pretending to be brave, I screamed like a baby the whole way down

My angel making an angel

Collecting snow for the snowman

Delivering more snow to Dad

Describing just how BIG the snowman was going to be

Snacking on snow while Daddy keeps building...such a good Dad

WOOHOO! We built a snowman!

Collecting snowman accessories

Accessorizing

So CUTE!

Daddy throwing a snowball back at Ashley

One last snow snack

Traffic to leave the mountain, I think this is evidence that we love our daughter :-)

A Photo Essay by Ashley

2010-01-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've dumped all the pictures off our cameras because our computer's memory was at it's limits. Funny, because when we got our computer we were told it had a crazy amount of memory and it would be nearly impossible to fill. I guess they forgot they were talking to a mom that takes as many pictures as the paparazzi. So, I finally tackled this task and when I was going through the pictures I saw these and they just made me smile. When we took Ashley to the mountains for her birthday she was getting bored on the drive home so I gave her the camera and told her she could take a few pictures. I must have been in a snow traffic coma because I don't remember her taking so many pictures (about 100) but they are all pictures of her little world and the things she sees so I thought I would share.

Mom

Looking at Dad in the tiny mirror

I'd be bored if I had to stare at that for the whole drive too.

This just made my heart melt. I think it's so funny that she was sitting like this but the fact that she took a picture makes me crack up. I love her!

The world's best elevator button pusher!

A girl with some seriously sleepy eyes.

Her view when she looks down, again, not so exciting :-(

Watching the world pass by.

I probably get asked a few times a week why this is here. We don't do much dry cleaning so she hasn't seen it used the way most people do. She thinks it would be a great place to hang toys so she could make her own mobile.

The door handle, such a treat when mom lets her open the door all by herself.

Happy 4th Birthday Ashley Nicole!

2010-01-22T22:41:00.000-08:00

Today was Ashley's 4th Birthday. Did I really just say FOURTH?? Gulp, make that a Double Gulp. I can't believe how fast time has passed over these four years. Last night I sat in bed thinking about all the feelings I felt as we drove to the hospital to start my induction at midnight. In some ways I was so excited and another part of me just wanted to say "redo!" and have Jason turn the car around and return to the safety of a life I knew and was comfortable with. Well, I'm so thankful there was no real option to call a "redo". These last four years I have been beyond blessed by the presence of our daughter. As a new mom there were some things I knew were going to be fun and I looked forward to them, but again, as a new mom there was a whole world of things I didn't know about that were going to be so magical and special. I remember staring at my angel in the hospital on the night of her birth in complete disbelief that this beautiful package of a person was mine...for good. I wondered how I got so lucky to be her mommy and I vowed to do my very best. The idea of having your first child is an exciting thing but you really have no idea how exciting, adventurous, fulfilling, rewarding, surprising and miraculous the journey will be until you actually experience it. I always wanted to be a mother, I couldn't imagine a future without having children. I thought I knew motherhood would be wonderful but Ashley has taught me that it is nothing short of amazing.

Ashley, I have loved every millisecond I have spent as your mom. You have blessed my life with thousands of hugs, kisses, loving words and giggles. You have loved me for me, accepted my flaws just as they are and even despite my bad days you have always reminded me that you love me. I have enjoyed watching you grow up (ok, I lied, a tiny piece of me has downright disliked watching you grow up, that piece of me wants you to always be the baby that curls up in my arms). I have loved watching your personality blossom and listening to you explain the way you see the world.

Over the last four years you have blessed our family with rich memories and happy times, here are some of my favorite...

-When you were 6-12 months old, you would wake up when Daddy left for work. I would bring you in bed with me and we would get another 20-30 minutes of rest and snuggles together. You ALWAYS woke up first and would roll over and start climbing over my face. You always reached for my face so I started to teach you where my nose was. After a few weeks of "practice" you figured it out and I was so proud. I love thinking back to the days when you would wake me up by grabbing on to my nose.

-When you were new to the talking world you used to reach your arms out to me and say, "Hold you". You learned it from me asking, "Do you want me to hold you?" I loved hearing those sweet little words.

-Watching you explore the world from 1-2 years old. I remember watching you open the pantry door, seriously checking out your options and then lightly pulling on a HUGE bag of pretzels which lead to what looked like 5 pounds of pretzels on the floor. Instead of freaking out about the mess you just plopped down and started to have your own little snack time. It was so funny to watch.

-For 2 years I tried to get you to finger paint, but you wanted nothing to do with it because of the mess. Finally, I convinced you it would be so fun and you agreed. I laughed so hard that day as you barely took the tip of your pointer finger and dipped it in the paint. When I explained that you were supposed to get the paint ALL OVER your hands you looked at me with horror but decided to go along with what I said. As I painted your hands you cringed and had to look away because it was messy. That finger painting lasted almost an hour and you didn't let your hands get completely covered with paint until the last 10 minutes. I laughed so hard that day and I will always love your clean and tidy ways :-)

-Your first trip to Disneyland for your second birthday was magical...end of story. It was one of those days when the three of us REALLY felt like a family and we smiled and laughed the entire day. I had so much fun watching you meet all of the characters from your favorite cartoons.

-Watching you surf with your daddy always makes my heart flutter. I know both of you are exactly where you want to be and are having so much fun.

-celebrating holidays with you reminds me of all the reasons I loved each holiday as a kid. You have brought that holiday spirit back to life for me.

-Getting our nails done together for the first time. I watched you the entire time as you crossed your legs like a lady and were so proud of your polished digits. I love sharing girly time with you and I love it even more because you love to share that time with me. Some of my favorite "girl trips" are when you and I sneak away to the grocery store or park all by ourselves.

-Watching you become a sister has been AMAZING! Watching you love on and comfort your brother makes my heart so happy. You are a wonderful sister and I am so proud of you.

You are my angel Ashley. I love you to the moon and back and I can't wait to spend another year with my favorite girl.

I hope you had a wonderful birthday today and know how much Daddy, Colin, Hauser and I love you.
A big Hug and a Kiss,
Mommy

Christmas Concert with Ashley

2009-12-12T01:13:00.000-08:00

For the last 10 years my family has attended the South Shores Church Christmas concert. It was at a Christmas Concert that I decided this was where I wanted to get married. Then I met Jason and 5 years later it's where we said our vows. I love going back every year, the music is great and to revisit the place we became Mr. and Mrs. is special to me.

Colin was not in best form because of his darn tooth so Jason agreed to stay home and Ashley, my dad and I went to the concert. Ashley was so excited to see my mom on stage. It was a fun date night with my dad and daughter. I told Ashley it was the place Daddy and I got married and that opened the gate for so many questions. She asked about my dress, the people, what we did, it was so cute.

This year the concert began with Marines from Camp Pendleton lighting the candles- I love those men and women. The sacrifices they make, along with their families, is beyond noble. I experienced a fraction of what the family members of a soldier go through and I can't imagine experiencing it to the full extent. So after shedding a few tears of appreciation the concert began.

I didn't worry about Ashley getting antsy through the concert but I wasn't prepared for her to be so interested. She watching every instrument and singer through the entire performance and kept telling me, "I can not believe how amazing and wonderful this is." The things she says make me laugh.

It was a fun night introducing one of my childhood traditions to Ashley.

These are just a few pictures of me with the kids before Ash and I left.

Santa visited our neighborhood...again

2009-12-12T01:08:00.000-08:00

Santa must really like the boys and girls in our neighborhood because he has visited A LOT! Of course Ashley was thrilled to see him again and to meet the Mrs. Colin had his usual attitude and was just happy to have someone holding him. We met up with Dylan because he had a run in with Santa that didn't go so well but we thought he might be brave if he was with Ashley and it worked!

Ashley really wanted to make sure Santa understood why she needed a new bike.

Little Lambs and the Sun and Sail Club

2009-12-11T01:06:00.000-08:00

The kids sang at a community Christmas Party at the Sun and Sail Club in Lake Forest.

Colin was excited :-)

So Santa Can Find Us

2009-12-08T00:59:00.000-08:00

We put some lights up on the house to make sure Santa would be able to find our house. Ashley did a great job supervising Daddy. You can tell our daughter is a SoCal girl because she has a coat on but still insisted on wearing her rainbow sandals, only in California :-)

I had her step back from the house when Jason was going to light it up so she could see everything and this was her reaction.

Little Lambs at the Retirement Home

2009-12-08T00:44:00.000-08:00

The kids had another choir performance, this time it was at an elderly home in Rancho Santa Margarita. After singing the kids went around and gave hugs to the grandmas and grandpas and Ashley chatted with two grandmas for a while.

After wishing everyone a Merry Christmas Ashley got to spend some time with her cousin, Dylan! He was so excited to watch Ash sing. Colin on the other hand slept through almost the whole thing, again.

Our Tree is Up!

2009-12-06T00:50:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun decorating the Christmas tree (minus the lights, I really can't stand doing the lights and that will never change!). This year, I had a little helper. Ashley was so excited to see all of the ornaments, to hear a story about each one and she had fun helping me find the perfect spot for everything.

It was so nice to have a tree this year and not have to remove furniture from our family room to make room, that put a BIG simle on my face. To top it off I now have a front window so people can see our tree when they come to the front door. This has been one of those things I've dreamed of forever and it is so fun to finally have!

Ashley was pooped after all of our hard work, so as a big thank you I made her blueberry muffins and hot chocolate for breakfast the next morning. She was thrilled :-)

Snow Day

2009-12-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

A year ago we had found a house that we liked, so we made an offer, but I still wasn't completely sold. We went back for another look and found the neighborhood snow day taking place at the park across the street from this house. After watching Ashley play for an hour, I knew this was where I wanted to call home.

Here we are a year later enjoying that neighborhood snow day once again. Ash and I decided to make it an event for the girls since it was too cold for Colin and Daddy didn't mind staying home watching football and Colin.

Ashley loved playing in the snow, trying to build her own snowman and trying to get the carrot back on the big snow man.

She thought she had hit the jackpot with the snow lot, then she spotted the snow slopes that kids were sledding down. She asked if we could PLEASE go NOW. We headed over there and while we were waiting in line I offered to go down the slope with Ashley and she thought for a few seconds and said, "I think it might be a little scary, but I am going to try to be brave and tough and go all by myself." I was shocked, proud and feeling a little sad that she was too old for my help.

She was so excited to carry her sled by herself and she grinned from ear to ear as she zoomed down the slope. When she was done she said, "I knew I could be brave mommy!"

Then we waited in line to get her face painted and while we were in line Santa rode in on a red convertible. Ashley was so happy to see him again and wasn't sure what she was going to talk to him about this time. While she pondered that she decided to dance for me, I need to get her in a dance class because she is always twirling around for us. After her face was finally adorned with a candy cane I took a picture to show it to her and she said, "No mommy, we have to go look at it in the mirror." It was so cute to watch her check it out in the mirror, it reminded me how grown up she is.

We decided to visit Santa and they had a great visit filled with high-fives, stories and of course talk about presents.

We finished the day off with a ride on the choo choo train and as I watched her smile from ear to ear with the cold air blowing in her hair I couldn't help but think about how much I love this girl. Her joy for life just oozes out of every smile and it is so infectious. It was just a special moment with my girl that I will always remember.