Momma & 2 Silly Monkeys

October costumes, take 2

2011-11-16T22:06:00.000-08:00

Although I dreamed. . . it was no surprise that the Rick Riordan book signing costumes couldnt double as Halloween costumes. We planned and created both sets of costumes in September, making our October Halloween prep pretty simple.

I didnt have any say in the costume selection this year :/ I had this grand plan of being a family of "Where's Waldos," (So cute, right??) . . . Yeah, apparently my kiddos had other plans! This year my Aubs was the Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland. She let me design a special hat to match her outfit instead of using the little floppy thing that came with the costume. She was cute :) Cayden decided he wanted to be a super hero. Spiderman and batman werent good enough for his big head . . . and thus, Super Cayden was born :) I created and purchased the majority of the costume on etsy. Cayden however insisted on the boxers and green stretch pants from Justice (yeah, the store for girls lol . . . and now understands why his bff Katy wears them all the time, "they are SO dang comfy!").The plunger, his weapon of choice was also totally him. Yup, he just gets weirder with age. He loved his costume.
Halloween weekend was costume filled. On Friday Cayden's school dressed up, on Saturday we went to a Halloween party, and on Monday Aubrey's school dressed up. By the time Halloween night rolled around, Cayden's costume had been through the wash 3 times. We had a fun weekend and still have a fridge FULL of candy.

October Costumes, take 1

2011-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

Cayden is infatuated with the Percy Jackson book series, and LOVES its author, Rick Riordan. For months and months he would randomly ask me to go on his website and find where he could meet him . . . and for months and months I didnt do it :) Welp, as my super mom powers would have it, I finally looked it up, and just 2 days earlier, his 7 day book tour (including a library in orange county) was announced. WAHOO! It took weeks before the library hosting the event announced how to get tickets. And for those weeks, to make sure we got tickets, I emailed and pestered those in charge. In the end, I was successful . . . and a proud Aliso Viejo library card holder :) Super Mom Status lasted for weeks!

The event encouraged the kids to come dressed as their favorite "demi-God." Appeasing Cayden a while back, I read the first book in the series and sort of knew the lingo. I did a little online searching and found these cool orange "Camp Half Blood" shirts (obviously from the book) Thinking it would be cool, I asked Cayden if he would want one of these shirts instead of dressing in costume . . . . " MOM (in that preteen Aubreylike voice I am all too familiar with), this is like the comic-con of books, I cant wear a tshirt! . . . Needless to say, he went in a full blown costume :)

The event was located in a beautiful park facility in Aliso Viejo and was an entire day ordeal. We woke up early, dressed the kids up (aubrey had a greek goddess costume from a school thing last year), and drove up north. To get to the parking area we had to pass the will call lines, and lines for the different viewing sessions. There were trillions of those cool orange shirts and not so many kids in full blown costume. It took some encouraging to get Aubrey to get out of the car . . . .and as all would guess, Cayden was never prouder in that lovely red beard :) (he was dressed as his favorite character,Hephaestus, the god of fire and tools)

It didnt take either of the kids long to realize they were amongst the best dressed there. They got interviewed and photographed by every magazine, newspaper, and website present. . . in the end, I think Aubrey was pretty dang glad I didnt let her take that costume off. haha

The event was perfect. The setting, decor, weather, activities, crafts. . .everything was fabulous. Rick Riordan arrived by chariot and spoke for about 30 minutes. We scored front row seats to this (at the price tag of 1.5 hours in line :) and enjoyed his humor and "fame story." When it was time for the actual book signing and greeting, there was no posed pictures allowed (which totally bummed me out) but Cayden got to meet and speak to his idol, and I guess that was the main reason we were there.

Fantabulous Friday

2011-10-07T23:10:00.000-07:00

Some days are better than others. . . . Fridays are usually not too shabby, but today stands well above the norm :) I'm still smiling!! The day was just all around splendid. After a couple of days of rain, we woke up to the beautiful blue sunshiny day. My work day was chipper and laid back . . . could have something to do with the lack of work taking place haha, but it was good :) It was parents day at lunch with my middle schooler. A day that always helps reaffirm was an awesome little girl I have. She has chosen such good friends and has such a good attitude on life. Her school is fabulous. She has great teachers and a great principal. Always make me smile to be on campus there. The kids get slurpees on Fridays (or maybe everyday I pick them up. Shhhh, dont tell grandma) and today I got one too. Oh the joys of a sugary drink, on a nice sunny afternoon. After school pick up, I ditched going back to work and spent my afternoon with a good friend, in an amazing spa in Poway. During that treatment, I missed a call from Aubrey letting me know her passport arrived in the mail. A short 10 days after we crossed our fingers and filed that application without the approval of that lovely father of hers :) I have paperwork to shred, and my Tuesday court day to cancel. Makes me smile! (Yep, I smiled lots today). That phone call was followed by dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. Then a passport frozen yogurt celebration with my future world traveler. We went home, watched tv, vacuumed the house and am now finishing up my favorite little guys costume for our fun adventures tomorrow :) Wish I had a pict to share from the day. I'll refrain from posting our passport mug shots :) Eeek, scary! We totally look like criminals :) Happy weekend all

I LOVE angry birds and not a clue how to play :)

2011-10-03T22:31:00.000-07:00

SO after months of debate. . . sister and I finally decided to bite the bullet and open an Etsy shop. We opened almost a month ago and at this point should have named our shop "Angry Birds Party Decor" . . . its madness! I havent got to quit my job yet, but I look at Angry Birds everynight (and they arent getting cuter haha)! We are thus far excited with the adventure and hope to expand our themes soon :) Like us on fb (our page stinks right now) or find us on Etsy, pass us on, share with friends. . . We are HAPPY to customize and create anything :) Yeah for new adventures, I think :)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperOwlPartyDesigns?ref=pr_shop

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Paper-Owl-Party-Design/254735151235609

A Dirty Birthday Celebration

2011-10-02T22:13:00.000-07:00

I ran the Survivor Mud Run in Lake Elsinore last weekend and it was seriously a grand and DIRTY adventure. A friend of mine recruited team "Happy Birthday Marcie" to join her in celebration of her birthday (yup, thats totally my kind of friend)! I was super excited to participate, signed up, and honestly never looked at the course map or obstacle shenanigans prior to the race. I wasnt a bit nervous. The course was only 4 miles and I totally felt prepared. On the drive up there, the car load began discussing strategies and problems we might encounter, blah, blah, blah and suddenly it dawned on me that I might be in over my head :) Turns out, they were all the worriers and everyone did smashing! The mud pools were awesome. . . it was like a day at the spa (without the pampering) and the giant waterslide into the lake would be reason enough to participate again. SO FUN!! Lesson learned. . . the less clothes the better . . . muddy clothes get HEAVY! Happy Birthday Marcie!

Facebook Party Cake :)

2011-09-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

I am the official office birthday baker . . . and after 13 years with this lovely task, I have run out of ideas and dread the thought of another office birthday (sorry guys). Sheesh, one can only make cupcakes so many dang times. I know, I know, there are a trillion ways to make cupcakes but the birthday workers have gotten pickier and more comfortable over the years. Making me more conscious of what I make compared with what I made the year before. Bigger and better is always the underlying motto of life. So this week we had a birthday to celebrate. With limited time to think of my next creation, and absolutely no time to actually complete this masterpiece, I broke down and bought one of my favorite cakes. The night before (when I should have been baking at 10pm) I was feeling a little guilty and came up with this grand idea to spruce up the store bought cake (didnt want any hurt feeling that I wasnt baking with love lol) . . . four hours later (yep, I ended up staying up way too late, which was what I was trying to avoid to begin with) . . . I had my fun party cake :) The cake was widely accepted and was renamed the cool "facebook cake" (my awesome picture source)! As an added bonus, they all totally thought the cake was homemade . . . next time I will run with that :) It was fun . . . you should all try it!!
I never actually took my own picture :( This was from a phone. Guess I will have to "bake" another cake soon.

Back to School Blues

2011-09-11T10:02:00.000-07:00

Besides back to school falling on Cayden's 9th birthday, the kids were basically ready to return. YEAH! So, hello new school year! This year I have a 7th grader and a 4th grader . . . and feeling older by the moment.

Cayden has managed to keep himself out of school trouble for quite some time . . . could have something to do with the fact he has been on Summer break for 2 months, but we will ignore that :) As many might know, he has a little history with detentions and minor principal office visits (nothing big deal, just the basic too-much-energy-for-school-boy-stuff) Dropping him off the first day I dangle a little bribe. 100 bucks if you dont get detention ALL year. I'm smarter than I sound, and know the feat is impossible! I knew I would keep my 100 bucks in June, but was hoping it buys me a month or 2 of good school reports.

Yeah, keep hoping mom! . . .

So I pick him up (day#5 back) and we always go through the same daily check in routine . . . have a good day? Yep. Learn anything new? Nope. Among those questions falls. . . . Detention today? "ummm, let me think, let me think . . . . NOPE!" (although i see his mind still thinking) . . . Oh yeah! I did, BUT . . . (there is always a BUT with Cayden when discussing the trouble he gets in) . . . he proceeds to tell me the incident. Something about a fire drill (It wasnt even a real fire mom!) and playing catch with a ding dong with a friend in a different class, while they were in their uniformed quite emergency lines. "The fire drill was SO boring!!" So he gets done telling his totally unfair detention story and kind of hangs his head in shame and says. . . " I was trying so hard to not get detention (and in his best auction-announcing voice, repeats his teachers words "Congratualtions Cayden, you got the first detention of the year!"

There must be some reward for that right?? It was hot, he was sad . . . the kid got a slurpee :)

Amazing, I know . . .

2011-09-09T23:26:00.001-07:00

Yeah, yeah, I have been gone for a long time. I have been wanting to "return" for a while, but was worried my sweet sister, Shawna would want me to take over the vacation blog recap . . . she finally finished (and did a fantabulous job, I might add), so I felt it safe to return to the blogging world :)
Pictured below incase you missed her blog (our quest to find bigfoot lol) . . .

hmmm, yeah good luck with viewing those :)

So Much has passed in the 9 months of absence (fortunately that 9 months did not include a baby)

My kids are getting old! Cayden just celebrated his 9th Birthday and a few months back my Aubrey turned TWELVE! Yikes!!
Birthday celebrating and planning is such an exciting part of my life (hopefully making it more a part of life planning parties for others next year), I couldnt skip sharing our celebrations . . . .

For Aubrey's Birthday she had a mall scavenger party . . . what could be more fitting for a group of middle school girls. Money & Shopping, it was the BEST:)

Cayden's 9th Birthday was on the 1st day of school this year. He was THRILLED lol . . . we teased him and told him they start the school year on the birthday of the kid who got into the most trouble the previous year. He totally bought it . . . he is such a smart kid and sometimes, not so much :) We celebrated his birthday with a mad science party the weekend before school started. It was a hit and he had a blast.

XYZ . . . the end :)

2010-12-23T22:50:00.001-08:00

Food Freedom officially begins in the am (although we have been pretty lax the last week or so)! We were driving home tonight and Shawn said, NEXT time, I would definitely do things different!
Ummm, Shawn. . . .we do a lot of crazy things but we arent repeat offenders :) No Next time my dear!!

Early on we decided in order to enjoy Christmas Eve and Christmas, we needed to jam together the final 3 letters of the alphabet! I will be the first to admit, our final day of XY&Z was basically a cheating bust

I ended up having a surprise day off today and spent it with the family running every which way . . .

Breakfast: Zinger (kind of like a donut, right?? haha)
Lunch: Yoshinoa . . .an old time favorite, that isnt really a favorite anymore, but super for Y day
Snacks: Zinger (again), york peppermint patty, and some cookies (sprayed with this awesome Yellow food spray Tab bought me to help me succeed haha)
Dinner. . . .okay so embrass yourself for the FINAL meal of this diet . . .Zouplantation . . . ummm formerly referred to as Souplantation lol . . . yes, we shook hands and cracked the very last day :) Oh well, maybe we WILL try again HA!

Thanks for following us during our crazy month long adventure . . . we hope to find something fun and new to laugh about soon! Merry Christmas to you all friends!!

W . . . onderful Wednesday!!

2010-12-23T12:44:00.000-08:00

So W turned out to be an all around WONDERFUL day!! My sissy had her adorable little girl

It was my last day of work for the week

and we got to eat some pretty wonderful items :)

The day started shakey. . . I headed out the door with only a pocketful of werthers - no plans on what would be on todays menu. For some reason I traveled a different way to work and coincidently ended up driving past good ol' Wedekings Bakery - delish!! I picked up a pastry for the office and basically made it my breakfast, snack and lunch :) YUM!

For dinner we conned mom and dad into taking us to their favorite joint . . . the Wagon Wheel
There I endulged in a Wagon Wheel grilled chicken salad and french fries. We often laugh about "the Wheel" but I have to admit, it was pretty dang satisfying tonight.

Shawn, the kids, and I then decided to head to the mall for some last minute items before heading out to look at Christmas lights. We left the mall with an armful of snacks and drinks (although i guarantee we didnt eat or even partake a bite of it all lol)
White hot chocolate
Wetzel Bites (both cinnamon and salted)
Warheads
Wax bottle candy
Wetzel lemonade slushee
and a diet coke lol
I'm really not sure if Shawn serious had intentions of eating all this - she is one crazy sister :)

**and I didnt eat the WWs but I thought it would have been pretty creative (and I was SUPER BORED at work lol)

V . . . ery close to done :)

2010-12-21T21:17:00.001-08:00

2 more days, hooray! V was most definitely a sugary day . . .
We had a birthday at work . . . and being the office baker girl, I strategically planned pretty&pink Vanilla cupcakes as the birthday treat :) I forgot to snap a photo. Vanilla cupcakes and vanilla wafers were my healthy morning breakfast. For lunch, Shawn brought the kiddos, and veggie panda bowls to my work. For dinner mom made burritos. . . Shawn and I skipped the meat and consumed delicious Vegetarian burritos (creative, I know). We snacked on some sort of Christmas cookie. They were white . . . Shawn called them vanilla, so I called them legal. Shawna stayed at mom and dads tonight, so to show her what she missed, we rushed out for Vanilla Milkshakes . . . . Love you Shawn :) haha!

U . . . LTIMATE!!!

2010-12-20T22:19:00.000-08:00

I would like to tell you to simply refer to Shawn's blog. . . she is home for Christmas vacation and we are basically mirroring each other's every bite!! lol but I suppose I can give you my version of the day. . . . basically, after much effort in preparing for U day last night, I FAILED!! I found myself starring at a bowl of Uncle Bens rice pudding this am and decided NO WAY!! YUCK! The day continued somewhat like this (far from any true diet strategy) . . . order the XL item on the menu and add the word ULTIMATE to the item and ANYTHING becomes legal :)

Ultimate Nachos . . . Ultimate trough of popcorn at the movies . . . Ultimate cheeseburger from Jack n the crack (honestly a true item and where the ULTIMATE idea originated) . . . Ultimate Shamrock-Kelly-Santa-Green-purple-4th of July-MUDPIE . . . . Just ultimate size it :) Oh yeah . . . .we also had Upside down cake! Obviously we are SO DONE but only 3 more days, why give in now?? Be prepared, we will continue to amaze you with our creative cheating ways! Happy Monday before Christmas friends and Happy my sister is in the hospital ready to have a baby day:)

Really Super Tardy

2010-12-19T18:03:00.000-08:00

We had a Christmas Party weekend filled with family, friends and lots of food options :)With a little pre party planning, we were able to partake in some festive celebrating!!
Friday was R day . . . RRaisin Bagel and Rainbow chip cookies during my really, super lousy work day
I was kept in good spirits knowing I got to spend my evening with some fabulous friends.
After a somewhat Long and traffic-filled drive up north (and some appetizers on the road) we made it and had a lovely time. My friends are the best and all came with me in mind - they boys even claimed they were drinking some sort of R beer in my honor - I think they may have been lying but I'll take it anyways :)
Dinner was fabulous (although I missed out on Kristen's Enchiladas)! Restaurant Style Tortilla chips with Refried Bean Dip (aka 7 layer dip), Romaine lettuce Salad - mexican style with mangos/black beans/tomatoes/cheese/cilantro dressing, Rice, and topped off the day with a Red sugar cookie (yes, a stretch I know) and a rainbow chip brownie :)
Muchos Gracias Amigos Saturday was S day . . .
my morning and early afternoon was 100% sugar cookie galore . . . In case youre not aware, I make the bestest sugar cookies and have missed the last couple of batches during this holiday season. Yup, ringing my bell again lol
We then again headed to a Christmas Celebration with our extended family. We had a lovely time and I luckily was able to partake in much of the dinner. . . . If you would like Shawna's bitter take on my Christmas party experience - head on over to her blog :) lol Love you Shawna!!Christmas Party Dinner. . .
Salad, SMELLY Swiss Cheese (YUCK), Smashed Spuds, Sandwich of cracker and cheese, Stuffing, Shammrock Santa Kelly Green mudpie . . . yeah, yeah, shutup :) After the party we headed out for the famous "last saturday before Christmas shopping experience." It was amazing :) While shopping, we stumbled across the food court, and for the last 19 days, my heart has been dreaming of Sweet Fire Chicken from Panda Express . . .with intentions of just having a "snack," I suddenly found my plate quite full (who knew so many of my favorite panda items start with "S")
Dinner #2 was served . . .
Streamed rice, String bean chicken, and my FAVORITE, Sweet fire chicken
Overall Saturday was an extremely SPLENDID day

Today was T day . . .
It rained all day today but was a good family day. We went to church, played some games (which I of course won haha), and got to attend a special caroling activity for a family friend struggling with her fight with cancer. Although sad, it was a pretty amazing experience. Picture the movie Pay It Forward. Hundreds of friends, gathered in the rain, in her front yard to sing Christmas Carols. One, it makes me feel so lucky to have the health and happiness of my family during this holiday time and lucky to be welcoming a new baby into our family within the next couple of days and two, what an example! Rita is obviously a special personal and an example of one who have touched many. I hope to leave an impact on all those I come across.

sappy, sappy. . . back to the eating aspect of this blog :) For breakfast/lunch/snack: Taco, Tostada, Toffee, and Toast
For dinner, mom and dad cooked a T friendly Sunday dinner (they may totally make fun of us, but they are also very supportive lol) . . . teriaki chicken, tater tots, and texas toast
tata til tomorrow . . . the end is near phew!!

Q . . . . quite surprised

2010-12-16T21:50:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I certainly thought I would be STARVING today. Lucky for me, that was not the case!

Breakfast
egg Quesadilla

Lunch
Quiznos

Snack
Spicy Jack Quesadilla

Dinner
Quaker Granola

Dessert . . . if you call it that lol . . . .
Queso Fresco (my favorite Mexican cheese :)

. . . think I will be skipping the cheese for the next couple days

P . . . .perfecto :)

2010-12-15T22:44:00.000-08:00

I'm with Shawn . . . if I had to choose one letter to eat forever, P is definitely in the running! Lots of possibilities for sure :)
Mini apple PIE for Breakfast
Peanut Butter crackers and Potato chips for snack (dang snack bin)
Potato for lunch
then discovered a giant bag of holiday Peanut M&M in the stamp drawer at work (grrrr) . . .no worries, I shared :)
Personal Pizza and Pinto beans with cheese for dinner (yeah, random I know)

Happy P day and Happy Happy Birthday to my Pops! Love you :)

O . . . . oh BOY! (cheesy I know)

2010-12-14T22:17:00.000-08:00

I thought for sure O was going to be horrible!, but it turned out to be a pretty spectacular day (well the food aspect, the social part of my day was CRAP) . . . .anyways, I am doubting shedding those 12 pounds lol
Maybe it wont seem like as much if I just list it out. . . .

Breakfast: Omelette (made by my dearest mother) and orange juice
Snack: Oatmeal cookies with craisins &
"O" shaped lifesaver candy, candy cane flavored . . . come on, I had bad breath
Lunch: oatmeal
Snacks (yes, again): Orange from my very own tree
Dinner: Orange chicken
and my very favorite, DESSERT. . . . Oreo icecream sundaes, YUM!

Think it gets great from here on out

N . . . not too shabby

2010-12-14T17:44:00.000-08:00

Sorry, sorry . . . late again! I had a late baseball game last night and when I got home I still had all my around the house stuff to get done! I didnt grab breakfast on N morning and was pleasantly surprised the "snack bin" at work had more than 1 options . . .i couldnt resist and chose 2 . . .

Natures Valley granola bar
&
Nacho Cheese Doritos

Followed by a pretty satisfying lunch. . . :)
Noodles

On Mondays I pick Cayd up after school and bring him to work with me for a couple hours and each Monday I stop and get him a Mcflurry from McDonlds (shhhh, dont tell Aubs). On this particular day, we opted for a Neapolitian Milkshake from In-N-Out (so I could have a few sips of course)
In the evening, we celebrated dads birthday (a few days early) Fillipis Pizza was on the menu (and by the way . . . he is the greatest dad) so we added Albertos super NACHOS to the table - delish!!
heres also a pict of the yummy looking chocolate football Cayd got for grandpas birthday . . . .sadly, It wasnt consumed :) haha

Now when we started this challenge, now 14 days ago, I did an initial weigh in. Happy to report 8 pounds have indeed been shed. I have been carrying 10 pounds that I knew should be easy to lose - so the test is to see if the final 12 come off just as easily - kind of looking forward to seeing how this whole challenge pans out!

L . . .azy & M . . . erry

2010-12-12T00:05:00.000-08:00

yeah, yeah I am a day late with this one (and no Shawn, I didnt lose) . . . yesterday was jammed packed with events and I was busy, busy, busy!! The post however says LAZY . . . it was L day and I am realizing, if you are LAZY AKA unprepared, you pretty much just dont eat. Yesterday I consumed a Lettuce salad (yup - there is that salad again) and a bowl of life cereal, both during the 11 am hour, and that was it! I was very proud when I whipped out 6 dozen sugar cookies and didnt eat a single piece of dough :) We attended the church Christmas party in the evening (where dad played a superb Santa). . . I had planned on again eating lettuce salad but got caught up serving and such, and by the time we got a chance to eat - only the mystery Lettuce salads remained ( I am a weee crazy and like to know where and by whom my food was prepared before I dare put it in my mouth) . . . So, I ended up going hungry

AND hungry I was when I woke up on M morning :) I whipped up a batch of macaroni for 7 am breakfast - it was honestly weird! I found a stick of mild cheese for lunch and for dinner prepared meat and mashed potatoes. Neither of which I really enjoy, but seriously hot food has been lacking from my life :) I have skipped on the dessert lately, but today I was tempted by the milk chocolate mini candy bars in the freezer, and one of those sugar cookies I skipped on yesterday, became decorated as a "Merry Christmas" cookie today :) and probably tops the best thing I have eaten in days!

N . . . O . . . P coming on up :)

K . . . Kellogs special K

2010-12-10T17:02:00.000-08:00

The End :BLAH:

. . . REVISE THAT . . . .

So this evening I was headed to a friends house for pizza, movie, and gossip night, and with no intentions of eating, finished my post before I left. Between my busy, hectic day (Aubrey's Student of the month assembly, a little work, and a marble painting art lesson with 25 eight-year-olds) and my nervous induced upset stomach, I downed a bowl of Kellogs Special K cereal sometime midmorning.

When first invited to the friends, the text went something like this . . . .
Friend: Pizza and Salad okay??
Me: (I quickly did the alphabet thing in my head and counted up the days. . . . K - dang!) Ummm, kind of on this weird diet, I will bring myself something to eat.
Friend: Oh no worries, I'm up for something different - what can you eat
Me: ummmm . . . .anything that starts with the letter K lol
Friend: ummm. . . . okay, pizza and salad it is :)

So I intended on grabbing something on the way but a few random things have been bothering me and havent really been hungry. So jump ahead to the dinner party of our fun night. . . . I emphasized I was fine, and sat around the table with everyone. I had semi-explained the whole diet thing and our "justification" rules, and after a sudden creative idea from an awesome, and creative friend, I found a piece of pizza, carved into the letter K infront of me :) How could I possibly fight with that?

Dessert was suggested in a similar manner, and although I declined, we thought it would be fun to create! The kids thought it was beyond cool. Looks like 2 mommas need to get out more often :)

J . . . just a little late

2010-12-09T21:18:00.000-08:00

Ummm . . . totally forgot tonights post, yikes . . . but sadly wont take long to tell you todays menu.
I was running a bit late this am and my lovely sister, whom I love dearly - and who also happens to be my competition lol, text me the words Jamba Juice! One of my old time favorites. I stopped on the way to work and got both breakfast and lunch. On the way home from work, I walked the aisles of Target and came out with only Jif Penut Butter ( I, myself thought it pretty creative lol). Finally made it home around 730 (after a later stop for bread) and consumed a "Jif and Jelly Sandwich" for dinner AKA PB&J - all about the creativity, right! My mind is already asleep, and my contacts are out, so I am leaving the lame last sentence to your choosing tonight :)

I . . . ♥ variety! haha

2010-12-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

So today was I day . . .Ice cream and Icing were in my mind, but never made it to my table :) Stopped by the grocery store on my way to work and seriously walked up and down the isles . . . failure :) At this point, it was way tooooo cold to venture down the freezer section and buy frozen dessert for breakfast.

Instant Oatmeal and a bag of iceberg lettuce (with italian dressing) made it to the checkout! Breakfast (check), lunch (check)

Now if you recall, we were supposed to go to Dave and Busters but our date canceled and I decided
on a more "I" friendly restaurant . . . IHOP :)

IHOP signature double blueberry pancakes and Iceberg lettuce salad were happily consumed for dinner :) I love salad and if you have noticed, have snuck it into many meals. . . .an we havent even got to S yet!

Just bring on J

H . . . . there was hope

2010-12-07T18:14:00.001-08:00

I am suddenly feeling extremely whiny posting this week. This challenge requires lots of preparation and unfortunately, prepared was something I was not today :(

Breakfast breakfast, whats for breakfast???
I decided at work this am, as I was dumping HOT chocolate down the drain, I guess I really dont like the stuff. I LOVE the melted marshmallows on the top, so once they are gone, I am pretty much done. Breakfast was thus a flop!

Lunch
The work morning was busy busy busy and I was thankful for the Hershey Kisses on the reception desk and for the Janitor's Holiday Cookie Tin :) Hershey Kisses (Candy Cane flavor) and Holiday Cookies completed lunch . . . it was quite festive if you ask me

Dinner?
Hotdogs or Hamburgers were the obvious choice. . . Hotdogs won Cayd's Heart! We went to Auntie Molly's favorite hotdog joint and I got a ketchup dog (with a pretzel bun of course) . . .Lucky for our little puppy, I'm not a huge hotdog fan . . . he ate most the weenie, and I ate the ketchup filled bun :) Delish! (or not)

And the evenings grand finale . . .
I bought Holiday Red Chocolate milk a couple days ago and have been anxiously waiting to taste it. If I can get my house to be a decently warm temp, I am planning on making some holiday milkshakes for dessert :) - - - - - - - - - - - - - >
ended up being the best part of my crabby day :)

I cant wait for I day (insert sarcastic laugh here) . . . .we are going to Dave and Busters with friends for dinner and fun . . . I cant wait to see a menu full of Iceberg lettuce . . . Goodnight friends :)

G . . . green and grilled

2010-12-06T22:17:00.000-08:00

I didnt love G day, AND it's Monday . . . splendid combination :)

Granola for breakfast (also served as cereal on C day)
Green apple lifesaver x 2 :) for midmorning snack
Grilled chicken something or another lean cuisine for lunch
Green machine naked juice for afternoon snack
Grilled chicken and Grilled Green pepper for dinner

Hip-Hip-Hooray for morning HOT cocoa, its cold out!!

F . . .fun with food

2010-12-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

Coincidently F fell on Fast sunday - weird? I thought so - but I am the one suddenly consumed with thinking in "letters" lol
After lunch, fasting was finished and food filled the belly :)

French bread toasted with Fruity jelly
French toast
Fettucini
French Fries
and something sweet of course . . .
Frosted, funfetti fudge brownies
**add frosted flakes to that :)

Lucky for you, I dont have any fun stories to accompany eating today :( Goodnight guys, gotta get G going!

E . . . Everything Edible??

2010-12-04T17:55:00.000-08:00

Even if I stocked food in my house on a regular basis, E was a hard grab and run letter . . .We rushed out of the door (empty handed) this am to pick up sissy and some friends and head over to a local retirement community to carol with a bunch of church kids. I was starving when we made it home at 11 and shared the last 3 eggs in the house with my Cayden. We then spent the afternoon at Chuck E Cheese with some friends. I intended on stopping at the store and picking something snacky up but we were running late so I arrived at the pizza joint empty handed :( The only option in the salad bar . . . eggs, and those weird mini ears of corn (which I dont like, and didnt eat, but put on the plate for the pict haha) . . .

scrambled EGGS for breakfast
dice, hard boiled EGGS for lunch
:BLAH:

Dinner time rolled around, and with enchiladas on the mind, we ended up at one of our favorite mexican joints. The especial of the day. . . ensalada . . . .so most places would simple refer to this as SALAD, but being in a Mexican restaraunte - Ensalada de pollo does the trick :) and 2 cheese enchiladas please haha! The enchiladas were muy delicioso and the salad looked good but the dressing was YUCK and thus ruined the ensalada! Oh well! We ended our night with eggnog milkshakes. Now I am not a fan of eggnog but add it to ice cream and is is divine :)

Excitement fills me as E day comes to an END

D . . . Done for the Day

2010-12-03T19:34:00.000-08:00

Holy cow I think this diet is totally backfiring on my waistline . . .I expected this to be a pretty low cal day because think about it, there isnt a whole lot of "real food" that starts with the letter D . . . ummm, but somehow I managed and have the FULLEST stomach ever! I think I may even be embarrassed to post what was consumed. . . it was Friday, a day of celebration, right? ha - oh well . . . enjoy the confession

GIANT Donut for Breakfast
. . . this actually comes with a story
So this am i told the kids we had to leave 10 minutes early so we could stop and get donuts before school. In the end, Aubs decided she didnt want one, and between the announcement and the the 3 minutes it took Cayd to get dressed, he forgot and made himself oatmeal for breakfast (probably a better choice anyways) and thus decided to trade in his morning donut for an after school slurpee- deal! So I dropped the kids off, and stopped at 711 to get gas, which is strangely also my favorite "donut shop." 7:30 am and the kind I like where already gone :( So, I decided to hit up a real donut shop and pick up a dozen for the office. . . . I quickly came to a conclusion. . . Friday is a horrible day to buy donuts. . . .the donut shop had 3 unfrosted, dry looking cake donuts and 2 giant chocolate covered glazed things - guess I wont be getting donuts for the entire office! I grabbed the 2 chocolate things and left (leaving the gross looking cake things) and the woman locked and closed the store behind me. It wasnt even freakin 8 am!! I was stunned. I guess thats a good thing I didnt know donuts are a SUPER early morning thing. Anyways. . . I had a giant chocolate donut for breakfast and gave the other one to a favorite coworker friend :)

Lunch day with my middle schooler makes me smile :) . . .Deli Sandwich & a handful of Doritos

Picked Cayd up from school and got him that promised slurpee . . . .SCORE, Dr. Pepper slurpee fits today perfectly and grrrrr, this 711 has my favorite donut in stock . . . . add Dr. Pepper slurpee AND donut #2 to the consumption list :(

Aubs went to a friends for the night, leaving me and Cayd for dinner. . . our options a Double-Double from in-n-Out or a Del Classic burrito from Del Taco . . . Cayd chose In-n-out and therefore, I consumed my first (and last) double double!

ummm, mom . . . you forgot to order me a shake! Ay yi yi child, youre killing me . . .Dairy Queen Dip Cones topped off our night. There you have it, the entire list! Please, please, please do not add up the calories.
Eeeeek, I think E might be a fasting day :)

C . . . Cookies, Candy and Cake Galore

2010-12-02T21:13:00.000-08:00

The first two-thirds of my day was less than exciting and the cookies, cakes, and candies I dreamed of for "C" were nowhere in sight . . . Cereal for breakfast . . . the same cereal for lunch . . . and a crummy bowl of cottage cheese for a mid afternoon snack :BLAH:
However, my evening was spent at a girlie church Christmas party, and it was BEAUTIFUL!! There was this pretty (white themed) dessert table, and coincidentally, or though it seemed, EVERYTHING started with a C!!

Cream Puffs
Cookies
Coconut Bars
Cocoa
Cupcakes
and Candies . . . . okay, okay, so although tempting, i didn't try it all . . . just a cupcake and a cookie or three :)

On the way home (after delivering our carload of sweet old ladies safely to their homes) mom, Aubrey, and I took a little detour by the soon-to-be-burnt-down bomb house and stopped at Wendys for an after dessert dinner . . . Crispy Chicken sandwich (hold the mayo please)
Up next . . . "D" the dessert girls dream

B . . . Hello December 1st

2010-12-01T20:54:00.000-08:00

24 more days til Christmas, and 24 more days of this wacko challenge :) It was Burrrr today and I missed my morning hot chocolate but I survived. . .

Bagel for Breakfast
Baked Potato and Broccoli for lunch
Banana Bar
Blueberry and blackberry fruit cup
Bean Burrito for dinner
and I froze my Blueberry Yogurt for dessert
. . . oh wait, I just discovered the mini Butterfingers in the Halloween stash! The BEST!!

"C" ya tomorrow . . . haha, get it :)

So below are my kids celebrating SNOW day in Southern California. . . .we have this awesome fake snow stuff which Cayd decided to put in balloons and have Aubrey pop with a dart over his head. It was quite hilarious to secretly watch from a far. Kids are weird!!

A . . . Apples, apples, everywhere

2010-11-30T20:27:00.000-08:00

9 pm and I have totally worn out all the "A" options in my house . . . maybe this is an AMAZING diet idea afterall :) I actually had a super fun day - something I never remember admitting before on diet day #1. I loved the comments yesterday. . .to be totally honest, when Shawna and I first thought this all up, we weren't super worried about X, Y, and Z because we pretty much were certain we would flop LONG before that!! But now, I think we are both pretty dang excited and EXTREMELY worried about what the heck is going to be eaten on December 23, letter X!! Maybe a day of Hershey Kisses?? We decided as long as we can justify it, it counts! Anyways, so what did I eat today?? . . . Anchovies? Alfalfa sprouts? Antelope?? I think I got a picture of everything today . . .

Looks like apples were on my mind (or coincidentally in my house) . . . apples, applesauce, apple cider, american cheese, artichoke pizza pocket, angel hair pasta, artichokes, and delicious Andes mints :)
I'm ready A change, bring on the Bs . . . .

Be prepared to see us skinny :)

2010-11-29T22:25:00.000-08:00

. . . or NOT! haha

So my sisters and I often have brilliant ideas . . . okay, maybe the ideas are usually mine, but it takes very little convincing to get my sissies to join in on my "FUN!" A couple of weeks ago for my birthday my wonderful dad got me my traditional self help book, this year titled "The Secrets of Millionaire Moms." I havent yet had the chance to read it, but my mind often wanders, and I find myself thinking about what the secrets in this book could possibly be. . . . what easy, snap-of-the-finger method would instantaneously make me a millionaire?? Somehow, off topic as it may seem, it came to this . . . . the invention of a crazy fad diet. Cuz that's what most diets are, CRAZY! But do people really make money inventing diets?? I guess Atkins did, but I think the money came after he died (not of a heart attack or congestive heart failure of course).

Cabbage soup, the ZONE, Hollywood, tapeworm, grapefruit, special K. . . . so my theory?? . . . basically, all "diets" limit your intake, as healthy or unhealthy as they restrict, making food boring and in the end, starvation and immediate, unhealthy weight loss . . . . so somehow this thinking lead my equally crazy sister and I to establish the ABC diet. I figure we should give it a whirl before I take it to marketing. Its a 26 day diet and is as simple as this. Day 1: eat only foods beginning with the letter A, Day 2: eat foods beginning with the letter B, Day 3: you guessed it, the letter C :) Diet?? Weight loss? I'm not sure since Day 3, letter C gives us the possibility of cakes, candies, and cookies galore followed by day 4: donuts, Dairyqueen, and dreamwhip . . . YUM!! So we will simply call it a challenge, a competition between sisters . . . Call us crazy, or loony, or whatever you choose, maybe it is simple boredom in the life of the Kelly girls. . . but for the next 26 days (or until one of us messes up or bails out) be 4 prepared to see our exciting daily menus!! We have had so much fun talking about it, hopefully the participation will be equally exciting :)

The prereturn of posting. . .

2010-11-29T21:31:00.000-08:00

So tomorrow will begin a string of 26 (hopefully, but not likely) continuous post! I figured before I jump into THAT I should write a welcome back blog :) attempting to recap life is impossible but maybe a couple blurbs would suffice. . .

So I turned 23 again this month and got to spend a long weekend in Catalina with some friends. The weekend adventure was planned far in advance and when i told people, they always responded with something like " oh fun, but what are you going to do there for 3 days?" . . . Ummm HELLO, no kids . . . 3 days . . . .HEAVEN! (haha, no offense little loves)!! So the day of departure came, we loaded the ferry (some of us got sick), arrived on the beautiful little island and pretty much immediately asked, "What the heck are we going to do here for 3 days??" We did eventually figure it out and had a BLAST!! Relaxing ,eating, walking, golf carting, bike riding, exploring, celebrity (or so he thought) stalking, shopping, para sailing, a morning at the spa, tv watching, ummmm even sleeping :) It was pretty great and a lovely way to celebrate!

Much to my liking, Aubrey has made an excellent transistion into middle school. Just this last week she was named the 6th grade student of the month. It took them 3 short months to realize my Aubrey is a superstar :) She will be honored at a breakfast in a couple of weeks. We are super proud of the choices she has made and sets such a good example for her little brother.

AND whats a blog without a quick story about our family comedian CAYDEN . . . so the other day we went to the new In -N-Out for lunch. The place was packed and like most In-N-Out experiences go , I sent the kids to scout tables while we ordered and filled drinks. The kids found 2 empty "bar style" seats next to 2 "hopefully soon to be empty" spots. I was watching the kiddos from afar waiting for our number to be called when I see Cayden reach over and grab a french fry from the now empty seat besides him. At that very moment Shawna kind of turned around and was like, is Cayd eating french fries?? It took me a second to get through the crowd and stop my kid from continuing his appetizer . . . ."CAYDEN!! what are you doing?? Those people are still here!!" His face is immediately shocked and he chucks the fry to the ground. "Oh, I thought they left" Okay kid, whether they left or not - we DO NOT eat strangers leftovers. "They looked normal and I'm hungry!!" This guy at a neighboring table totally watched the 30 second ordeal and was cracking up as he shared it with his friend - giving my little food snatcher thumbs up on their way out. He drives me BONKERS!!

. . . okay, just one more. . . . we recently flew off to throw my adorable pregnant sister a baby shower. Our trip to Indiana was quick and sleepless but we were honored to throw her a shower, meet her friends, play with the triplets she watches, and help set up baby Brooklyn's nursery :) We cant wait til the baby arrives and Molly practically moves back home ooops, I mean visits a lot :)

Not SWEET Aubrey

2010-09-13T22:53:00.000-07:00

. . . Oh yes, sweet little Aubrey has a not so sweet side too :)

Last month, I made a "motherly" decision and pulled Aubrey from her softball team. While she completely understood my reasoning for why she couldn't be on the team anymore, she was devastated. Thinking quickly, I came up with this "exciting" plan to train her to be a runner, and compete in short races with me (ones with medals of course). I figured it would be something fun for us to do as a family. She was totally on board, and the plan immediately lifted her spirits. I made cute charts, convinced grandma to join us, and everything seemed great. . . ummm, that is, until the training and running aspect of the plan actually started :) GRRRR! Our training progressively leads us through series of run/walk cycles, leading up to 30 minutes of continuous running. We have basically the same ritual every day (or 5 days a week), I come home from work and chipperly announce. . . . "it's time to change into running clothes!" and my sweet little Aubrey immediately turns into the BEASTmaster :) The first two weeks we had a 6 minute walk/2 minute run cycle, repeated 5 times. We got through the first week with minor whining and complaining but when week #2 rolled around, the HOT SUN also decided to roll in to town. Not far into our run one day my Aubs turned into her crabby runner self and was purposely doing everything I was training her not to do. To say the least, she grew frustrated with my critiquing and yelled "I HATE YOU," and proceeded to spit on me. Ummm, I was a little shocked, and in my stern, mean mom voice (holding back my laughs) she got a yelling :) I believe she immediately regretted her actions, and even more so now. . . .A couple weeks have passed and not a day goes by that someone doesn't mention it. "Hey Aubs, you're not going to spit on me, right." We all laugh at her, and sometimes she laughs too. I am happy to report we are currently working on week #4 and today's run increase was fabulous. Mom and Aubrey did amazing and Pregnant Auntie Molly is here visiting and joined in the training fun :) Yeah for our new hobby. I hope one day Aubrey will admit she kind-of-sort-of likes it and I can relive my early running years through her :) The reason we have kids, right? Oh how I love them and their little mistakes too :)

Dedicated to my dear, sweet, pregnant (w/ my lil' Brooklyn) sister who doesnt believe changing fonts & layouts counts as blogging :) Here's your post

2010-09-09T21:48:00.000-07:00

Hooray for fall!! A time for new beginnings . . . or is that Spring? Guess it doesn't matter, I am ready for new beginnings. I love it. . . the kids are back in school, the decorations are up, apple cider, chilly weather, yummy soup . . . fall is the BESTEST!!

Besides a great family vacation, the exciting reveal of my sisters baby girl, and Caydens 8th Birthday (okay, I guess there was more good there than I thought) August was basically a BUST in my life. . . . I lost my 2 best friends to the wicked witch of the west (ummm, like seriously), discovered a boy I dated but 3 months earlier ran off and got married (hmmm, you think he was dating us both??) , and lost the current bf when he ran off to Greece for a month and ummm, never returned??
I'll just assume he got married too. I was sad all month, but now it is September, I am putting it behind me, and trying to find humor (and a lesson) in it all :)

The kids have fallen into their school routine and so far everything is perfecto. Aubrey started middle school (attending the same school I did as a kid) and LOVES it. To be honest, I think the transition was harder on me. She is getting so old and I don't like it :) I actually wasnt even able to drop her off on the first day and had to take her to a friends. . . I have since over come that haha. I went to preregistration, back to school night and parents lunch day and am so happy with her teachers, the staff and the school environment. It is awesome and I know she will continue to grow in to a bright young lady there :) Cayden is now in 3rd grade and getting so big and responsible too. He was sad his sister wasn't at his school anymore (although they rarely even saw each other) but has proven to be quite independent and happy with school life. He loves his teacher (his first man teacher), is doing well with his school work, and hasn't even had a close call with the principals office (knock on wood). He got a new bike for his birthday from grandma and grandpa and it is still (yes 3 weeks later) his most favorite present ever. He practices riding it every day in hopes of proving to me he is responsible enough to ride it to and from school. Awww, maybe one day little one!! He is also having a competition with grandpa (although gpa may not realize the competition factor) to grow the biggest pumpkin. He wakes up extra early each morning to tend to that growing plant. It is beyond cute!
Okay, okay. . . I will stop rambling. Hope this post will satisfy my sister . . . Happy new school year and fall to all :)

It's LUCKY Thursday . . .

2010-07-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

Shocked, Surprised, Ecstatic . . . I just won the bestest blog prize ever! I wanted to give a shout out and thank The TomKat Studio Blog. . . I am addicted to this blog and inspires my crazy party planning hobby :) I feel so Lucky and honored :) WAHOO! Cant wait to get this amazing machine and put it to work . . . Awww, I LOVE it already!!

Oh yeah. . . here is the prize . . . an amazing piece of machinery

http://tomkatstudio.blogspot.com/2010/07/super-fabulous-friday-giveaway-winner.html

Half way through 2010 . . .

2010-06-07T23:49:00.000-07:00

. . . oh yes, sadly it is true. . . .we are on the downhill of 2010, meaning its time to check in on those new years resolutions. . . . I should probably just stop writing now!

Okay. . . .here goes it

fail
GOAL: Lose 20 pounds!
ummmm, pretty sure I have added another 20 (as I sit and eat my sour patch kids at 12 am!)
Maybe next year!

fail
GOAL: Run 1000+ miles this year
not looking so hot. . . .is it possible to run 100 miles per day?? haha
This could possible be the cause of the failure above

looks promising
GOAL: Compete in 3 running events
San Diego Rock N Roll Marathon just passed and I wasnt there :( but I already ran the Carlsbad in Jan and am planning on Disney in Sept and possible the Ragnar Relay in the fall too??

Awww, my favorite goal
GOAL: Read 52 books!
Should SUCEED with flying colors :) Lovin it!!

hmmm??
GOAL: Be a better friend
struggle, struggle. . . always a struggle. I am prob not the one to judge this, but I think all my "Friends" in January are still currently talking to me today :) I hope that counts for something!

I still have all summer break??
GOAL: Help Cayden become a better speller
Horrible speller but read my last post . . .even a horrible speller can be a GATE student :)

hmmm??
GOAL: Let Aubrey act like a 10 year old
Welp, she is ELEVEN now, so treating her like a 10 year old would just be cruel, right??

and my final goal for 2010 . . .

FAIL :BLAH: FAIL again!!
GOAL: Find that 2nd paycheck :)
yeah, probably not going to ever happen, oh well!

Looking forward to my checkin in 2011 :) Happy Half Birthday 2010

My little Brainiac. . . or NOT??

2010-06-07T22:41:00.000-07:00

Sharing my proud momma moment . . . we received Cayden's acceptance letter to the GATE program in the mail today. His adorable, sweet, brilliant, "Editor-in-chief of the school newspaper," hard –working sister couldn’t be more jealous. Honestly, the program at his particular school doesn’t offer much, but as momma of this little rug rat, I couldn’t be more proud, and AHEM (clear my throat) ummm, SURPRISED????

Yes, just yesterday it was this "brilliant" child who managed to drive me to near insanity with his less than genius maneuvers, maybe his brain was on hiatus?? We ended up at a local store to pick out some new sunglasses, glasses he managed to lose in an empty church room?? Guess that’s not dumb . . .. maybe magical?? Anyways we arrive at the store, I park, and my little puppy of a kid immediately sticks his head out the window and I nearly chop it off rolling up the windows. "Ummm. . . .get that dang head of yours in the car my love." GRRRR. . . . So again, we are at this store and Cayd and I run in to use the bathroom before filling our cart and heading to the checkout line. Jump scene to that awkward moment where the items are all rung up and bagged and I'm franticly searching for my ATM card. . . we got gas on the way to the store and I could have sworn I put it in my back pocket??? I give up and pull out one of those evil credit cards and hope its one that’s still good :) haha, yeah, thats a whole different blog! So we succeed, get to the car, and head to our next destination. I am driving, and Aubrey is throwing everything out of my purse searching for this card. I get a little flustered and am talking to her not so nicely . . . . she’s in tears, I am mad, and the little puppy in the backseat is completely clueless, and simply along for the ride. We get to 711 and I announce – they are luck I have a couple bucks, and can still get them slurpees (as promised before this whole mess) At this point my "genius” son looks at me and says, “youre looking for your ATM card? . . . and simply states . . . you dropped it on the bathroom floor at target." ummm, serious?? Could you have not mentioned it 30 minutes ago. . . when we were actually in the bathroom??? Guess you can say, I was less than happy and maybe a tad LIVID :) haha, I can say it with a smile now. Where did this kid come from? Completely clueless of the commotion that has been occurring?? At one point I had even turned to him and totally blamed him . . . he is notorious for losing things (hence the trip to the store in the first place) "Ummm, I thought you would pick it up!" Of course, the card was not still on the bathroom floor when we returned once again to the store, nor had anyone turned it in to guests services. But luckily, canceling the card was super easy and my child got a lesson in identity theft :) He loves learning things. . . .but usually takes the hard way!

Oh brilliant one . . .. good luck in the GATE program :)

RSVP Please

2010-06-03T20:47:00.000-07:00

I love making invitations!

. . . But, I didn't especially love making three separate sets last month! My nights have seen its fair share of patterned paper and double sided tape :) My last requester said . . . "nothing big deal, I only need like 10 or 15." While it isn't the mass production that kills my time. . . its my initial vision . . . and my over thinking of that initial vision. One of my many faults . . . pursuit to perfection. If I am going to spend my time making something, I might as well create something I LOVE!! I think those "nothing big deal, only 15 invites" costed me 4 trips to the craft store and 12 hours of arranging and rearranging before I ever did start creating :) I was so so so excited at work today. . . I am going home tonight and have absolutely nothing to glue!! Hopefully now I will find the time to blog about the actual events that followed those invites . . . .

Just the 15 invites :) Love you Barbs

Aubs aprons to go along with her cake decorating party!

To be honest, I actually never did fall inlove with these flip flops and will never make again. . . something about them says Grandma's Slippers to me! Oh well. . . we all occasionally FLOP (no pun intended) haha

Forever in a FUNK??

2010-04-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

. . . Nah, life totally has its ups and downs but at this ripe old age of "almost 30" (grrrr,ugh,blah), I have learned that we can get through anything. . . .even extremely CRAPPY, CRAPPY weeks :) So with that said, I am happy to report that I believe I have recovered from my recent state of FUNK! The last two weeks have been a little rocky in my life. My kids went away to stay with their auntie for their first week of spring break, and while I thought I was going to have a nice relaxing week of fun, the week didnt go quite as planned and I quickly realized how my kids are everything in my life. I was lonely, lost, and kind of felt out of place. I'm not one that spends a lot of time at home, and this week thats where I found myself . . . thinking about growing old and gray all alone, it was lovely. At the end of the week, I found out one of my bestest friends is pregnant. While I am totally, completely, 100% happy for her and her husband, I was a little shocked at my own reaction to their news. After a minor friend freakout, I ate not just one, but two, donuts from the most enormous donut store in town, and proceeded to cry for the next 6 days :) I am not normally a crier so this everyday thing was killing me . . . I guess I want a baby (and maybe a husband that wants a baby too :)

While I have the best support system of wonderful friends and family who I think totally "get" me . . . I cant help but sometimes be sad. I have a wonderful, amazing life but would love to find that missing piece and guess am tired of hearing people give me their take on it . . . .give it time . . . when you least expect. . . blah blah blah. . . I know people just want to help and I love you for it, but sometimes sad and depressed is where I need to be :)

And as an added update (and final blow in my crappy week) . . . I would like to make a public announce so people can stop inquiring about ummm "that situation" haha . . . he is GONE, not gonna happen :) I have always dreamed of marrying a childhood friend, so when this boy suddenly showed up from my middle school past (a boy I happened to have a huge crush on)- I think I immediately thought it was fate and fell in love with the idea of this dreamed up fairy tale coming true. I admit, I maybe jumped to some conclusions fairly quickly and missed the obvious . . . that he and I were going nowhere . . . so we said our farewells (something that did not bring tears) and I again search onward for Mr. Perfect . . . oh how the heart wants :)

This kid of mine is totally random . . .

2010-04-07T22:22:00.000-07:00

I LOVE him . . . he is ambitious, determined, driven, a go-getter (hmmm, do all those things mean the same thing?) and someday will be rich and rule the world (or so he hopes), he is adorable and trouble all in the same moment. He has a special seat in the principal's office, but totally makes his teacher smile. He is loving, passionate, and doesnt care what anyone thinks of him, but randomly decides to be shy . . . AND he says the FUNNIEST things ever. If I wrote them all down - I think I could write a best seller. . . . the kid melts my heart completely :) Anyways, my dad has been ever so anxiously waiting for me to post this one, so here is my "Cayden" story of the week . . . a couple of weeks ago Cayd was watching tv and randomly decided to make his birthday list (his birthday is in August . . .ummm, this was March) I didnt pay much attention to him, but he sat and wrote this list ALL night. When I told him to get ready for bed he placed the list on my computer desk and announced he was finished. I could lie and say I was busy blogging, but since proof in in my lack of posts, I will be honest and admit I was facebook stalking :) I pushed the list aside and didnt even give it a glance. The next night, Aubrey was at the computer and asked me if I read his list. . . . "you have to read it mom, my brother is weird." Again, I forgot. A couple nights later I came across it while cleaning up a stack of papers. It took me a minute to figure out what it was, and another minute to decipher Cayden's LONG, misspelled birthday list . . . "ummm, Aubrey . . .your brother is definitely weird!!"

So amongst the normal things a 7 year old boy would ask for . . . a new paintball gun, army googles, nerf gun, speakers for his guitar, a drill . . . .here are Cayden's simple birthday requests ( I of course already posted on facebook and conned many of my friends into taking care of his "desires," but wanted to share my kid with the rest of the cyber world)

Cayden would also like the following. . . A tshirt gun (also a Christmas request that was not fullfilled, although he did receive the plunger from that list, . . . he would like to be the official Cougar tshirt shooter at the hs football games), a pig, a big fat cowboy belt, a mustache, another house built in our backyard, a brick of surfboard wax, a moon rock, to be the middle child, a secretary, a long stick, and 3 boxes of snow!!

I have no clue where he came from . . . but he keeps me LAUGHING for sure!

Happy Easter

2010-04-07T21:41:00.000-07:00

I got the opportunity to be with my sisters this weekend :) Yeah. . . I LOVE them! Anyways, we were bagging on Boring blogs (you all know you have read them) and they commented that I dont get an opinion since I havent blogged In over 2 months!! Yikes, has it been that long?? My kids went to their Auntie Shawna's house for their 1st week of spring break. During the day, I of course worked, but at night I was supposed to use my time wisely and read a couple books, get back on my running schedule, do a little dating, and catch up on my blog, of course. Ummm . . . the kids are home now, and NONE of the above got accomplished :( I spent my evenings in a funk (which I will explain in an upcoming post), and really did absolutely nothing but wallow in self pity. Yeah, it was fun and productive :) Anyways. . . I am super grateful this day for my family. I have the bestest one ever!! My sister happily volunteered her 1st week off track (yes, away from her school kids) to take in mine and entertain for a week. I LOVE her and know the kids had a fantastic time in Las Vegas. I got to hear them rub it in to friends today, and I know they realize how super lucky they are to have terrific aunties :) Shawna spoiled them rotten with fun activities. During their 5 days with her they visited a trampoline house, went to a hockey game, painted pottery, visited the M&M and coke factory, went to the 3 different arcades, and went black light miniture golfing. . . I'm sure I missed something, I doubt there was a dull moment. Later in the week, my other super wonderful sister, Molly and her hubby Bryan joined them. I drove in a couple days later and in a short 24 hours we visited, ate, site saw, shopped, played, and got to do the Easter stuff together. I am truly blessed!

Carlsbad Marathon Weekend

2010-01-20T20:14:00.000-08:00

So, for those of you who may not know me too well, I am one of those people always up for a challenge. Tell me I cant do something and I'll go out of my way to prove you wrong (with the exception of strangely prancing a mile around the track, right Shawna? haha) So the other day I was signing my kiddos up for the Carlsbad Keebler Mile Run event and realized both the half marathon and full marathon taking place on Sunday were sold out. I hadnt really considered running it but I guess that "you cant do it thing" popped in my head and suddenly the challenge was there. I MUST run this race. So a series of events took place next . . . I conned a couple friends to join in my craziness, found us race bibs on the black market (craigslist), and completed 6 days of serious training (haha, not really. . . this was the same week thats the amazing rainstorm hit southern Cal! Running wasnt really in the forecast)

After 5 days of intense rain, we woke up bright and early Saturday to a BEAUTIFUL, sun-filled morning! Our clan carpooled to Legoland where the kids all did a fabulous job in their mile long race. Sarah found the girlies cute matching outfits and Jessica did the boys. They all looked adorable! Too much fun :)

Aubrey has asked to compete in a 5K next. I am loving her ambition :) For a $15 admission fee, the kids goodie bags were fabulous. They each got a free movie ticket with popcorn, admission to Legoland, a Medal and tshirt. We were stoked! But to top it off. . . they had great after snacks and i left with a HUGE bag full! I definitely got my $30 back! Wahoo! So after the race festivities, we spent the day at Legoland. We thought it would be packed but it turned out to be one of the calmest days I have seen in a long time! It was a great day!!

I swayed from my diet that night and had a major carb feast! It was a great pre running treat :) The following morning, I woke up way too early (for the 2nd weekend day in a row) and headed to Carlsbad for our spontaneous 13.1 mile run! Kim, Dana, and I (known for the day as Charlotte, Marla, and Sarah) started out on the course together. I was hoping Dana would lead me to a PR, but after our 1st mile we urged her to ditch us and Kim and I completed the race together. The morning was beautiful and the course wasnt half bad. I am not a hill person and LOVE my flat runs :) and was a little surprised at how "hilly" the coast is. The middle of the race was treacherous for me - my legs didnt seem to want to wake up, and then to top it off, I tripped over someone's dead Christmas tree ditched on the side of the road and had a bit of a knee injury. I suddenly realized the pain my sister was in last month when we ran in Las Vegas! So sorry Shawn :) But I survived!! The last 4 miles seemed much better and together Kim and I held hands across the finish line to a 2 hr, 6 minute finish.

It was a super weekend and I am so glad I have friends that love to run as much as I :)

-Accept the challenges so that you may feel the exhilaration of victory-

- Be the change you wish to see in the world -

2010-01-12T21:30:00.000-08:00

Oh to a new self. . . . I know, I know- waking up January 1st cant make me a new person, but it is an excellent time to refocus my goals and make sure I am constantly working on improving myself. I love to be held accountable, so here are this year's resolutions for you all to poke and prod me to success :)

Lose 20 pounds!
What would a resolution list be with out mentioning weight loss? I actually started this one the week before the new year and so far, so good ! Although, the bowl of microwavable rice krispy treats I am currently eating at 11pm certainly does not fits into my weight watcher points today :) oops

Run 1000+ miles this year
I so wanted to follow my fellow running bloggers on this one and aim for 2010 miles. . . but after a little math, I realized 6 miles, 365 days in a row wasn't going to happen. 1000+ sounds more realistic (but hopefully the + is closer to the 2000 mark)

Compete in 3 running events
. . . got the San Diego Rock N Roll Marathon, and the Las Vegas Ragnar Relay . . . just looking for one more good one :) Anyone need an event partner??

Read 52 books!
Yup, thats a book a week and so far, I'm loving it :) I have never been a reader so this is a huge challenge for me but I have quickly learned a great book is hard to put down. Sleep is still not going to be a priority this year :) If you have a great must read book - please share the name!

Be a better friend
struggle, struggle. . . always a struggle. I lost a good one this year but gained a couple of my bestest friends ever :) I am blessed to be so lucky and have such a wide variety of friends :) did that sound bad??
But the year has started off rocky with friendship troubles and I promise I am working on it! I am striving to be the best friend I can be to all around me!

Help Cayden become a better speller
My little smarty pants is the worst speller ever! His teacher mom ought to take the time to figure this one out! I have already done a bit of research and hope to have him the spelling bee champ in 3rd grade next year :)

Let Aubrey act like a 10 year old
Sometimes (k, most of the time) I'm way too hard on this kid and hold her responsible for too much! She is such a good girl and for some reason she always gets the grunt of my crabbiness. Love you Aubs, I'm totally working on it!

and my final goal for 2010 . . .

Find that 2nd paycheck :)
whether that be a second income, or a husband, I care not! I have bills to pay :) haha

Happy New Year to all my friends, family, and blogging world friends :) May this year bring the best to all!!
New and improved Bonnie here I come . . .

-2009- It's a Wrap!

2010-01-12T20:24:00.000-08:00

Wowsers . . . I was a lousy blogger last month! I was hoping to update my Christmas and New Years celebrations BUT, I'm over it! SO, in 50 words or less. . .
We had an amazing month! My kids are beyond spoiled, but so am I :) I am extremely blessed to have such an amazing family and enjoy all the time we get to spend together. My friends rock, and each are a blessing in my life. I love living in California, where we have the GREATEST weather ever!! I love my job and those I work with. Basically, I'm just super LUCKY! Think that was 50 words yet?? haha! I have to throw the following in. . . . I love my pink extension cord, new fence (my dad is the bestest) , ping pong table, and cricket expression (even though its still in the box) :) Hope you all had a great December
Kiddos on Christmas Morning
My amazing fence building team
Ping Pong Tourny anyone??
Happy New Year :)

Run, Run, Run . . . I guess it's what I do

2009-12-13T22:28:00.001-08:00

It's official, running is my Hobby! Not sure why I didnt choose basket weaving or something a little less strenuous, but I didnt, so I supose I will continue to run . . . .

Less than a week after the LV marathon, I found myself on the starting line of the Jingle Bell 5K in Balboa Park. My friend Sara (who until Saturday was my Facebook/Blogger friend . . . you should totally check out her blog, Rookie on the Run, she is one of the funniest bloggers ever, and she shares our "meeting" story there) invited me and seriously, who could possibly resist such a festive event?? I was stoked Sara thought of me and even more thrilled she wanted to dress up! I have decided she is SO my type of amiga :)

I was a bit nervous when the alarm went off at 5am (after I hit the pillow at 2, oops) Saturday morning and the rain was still falling outside. I put on my festive colors and jingle bells and rushed out the door to meet my friend. Sara brought me an adorable elf hat . . . we looked pretty dang cute :) haha. We got to the race in plenty of time to register, look around, and even got a pict with good ol' Saint Nick! The rain stopped long enough for the event to take place. The run was beautiful, and the company was fantastic! I am thankful today for new friends and my few friends who actually enjoy running :)

So my next endeveor?? My sissys and I are putting a team together to run the Southern California Ragnar Relay in April! Shawna ran the relay in Las Vegas earlier this year and i was so, totally jealous. Our event will run from Santa Barbara to Dana Point (can you picture how beautiful that run will be?? awww, heaven for sure) We are looking for 12 people to join our team. The cost is $95 per person (plus later fees to rent cars and possible a night in a hotel)! It should be an amazing time. (Seriously, I cant sleep at night I am so excited) Over the course of approximately 24 hours, each team member runs 3 times for a total distance between 13 and 21 miles. This race is for all - beginners to crazy competitors!!

I am so , so very excited that I have convinced one of my bestest friends to start training and be on our team. She is fun and amazing and will be a great addition to our team! She isnt a runner yet, but I have great faith in her and know with a little training she will complete her legs of the race :) Love you Jess! (hope she is totally embarrassed, haha. . . .she is responisible for that birthday party post on my blog last month)

anywho. . . .if you want to join us (girls or guys), let me know - we would love to have you :)

http://www.ragnarrelay.com/losangeles/index.php

Christmas with the Addams family :)

2009-12-13T22:26:00.001-08:00

It is amazing to me how intuitive my little Cayden can be . . . only 7 years old and he already has our family all figured out :) Neither mom or dad's surname is "Addams" . . . Cayden came up with that one all on his own! As we headed to our annual "California, extended family's Christmas Celebration" at mom's, Cayden decided we are just like "The Addams Family" . . . big and full of WEIRDOS! Ding, ding, ding!! I think we have a winner :) but I guess what family isnt full of weirdos? As always, we had a great time . . .the little cousins ran around like crazy and the big people had fun visiting, laughing, and eating (of course)! And Cayden is most definitely correct. . . the "real" Addams Family has some serious competition :)

-The Love of a Family is the Greatest Blessing -

Las Vegas Luck Needed

2009-12-13T20:44:00.000-08:00

Luck was definitely needed (and in short supply) when we ran the Las Vegas Marathon last Sunday! Months ago, my sisters and I decided to run our first (and only) full marathon! I trained and trained for a good couple of months and then after officially paying the $100 fee, life got the best of all 3 of us and our training was somehow "misplaced."

Excuses, excuses . . . there are always excuses . . . Living in Indiana, Molly didnt love running in the cold, Shawna came up with a bum knee, and I got caught up in the kids sports and found myself running 60 mins, just 3x per week and eliminated the long Saturday runs from my life! All 3 of us arrived in Vegas knowing we were basically "screwed" and kind of avoided even talking about the event and the fact that we werent completely ready until the night before :)

The month prior to the event the Cayden, Aubrey, and Aub's friend Jamie trained and ran 25.2 miles. We tracked their progress and mileage on a chart, and early Saturday (in the absolute freezing cold), they competed in the kid's marathon race and finished their last mile. They did a great job and all 3 kiddos ran their complete mile without stopping. I have always said I am going to turn my kids into runners, and I think I am finally succeeding :)

We spent the rest of Saturday in Vegas being (cold) tourists! Cayden is infatuated with the Eiffel Tower and was stoked to march up to it. We also had yummy treats at the all famous Serendipity, played in the NYNY arcade (awesome games let me tell you) and made a trip to kid heaven, M&M world and the Coke Factory! It was a great day and we were definitely tired when we got back to Shawna's house.

There was an abnormal cold spell in Las Vegas and the night before the race long sleeve shirts, hats, mittens, and knee high socks were added to original short and tank top outfits!

4:30 Sunday morning we woke up, got dressed, and headed to the starting line! We ended up stuck in traffic and watched from the freeway the fireworks officially start the race. 20 minutes later, we bid farewell to mom and hopped out of the car and ran up the freeway off ramp to the starting line. As you can imagine, it takes a long time to get 20,000+ people across the starting line and we snuck in probably in the middle of the pack. The race started well - we "cruised" up the strip with no goal time and expectations other than finishing. We were pretty worried about Shawna - but at the 10 mile split (where the smart 1/2 marathon runners head back and the full marathon runners head off to the middle of nowhere) Shawna said she was fine to finish . . . I think that's where we went wrong :) We made it to mile 13 in a decent time (and if finishing - probably would have meet the under 2 hour goal)! At that time Shawn's knee was in pain and we stopped for a few mins (with mom and the kiddos) to apply some "magic knee strips" (but apparently not so "magic" if applied during the race and pain)! The last 6 miles were pretty much awful . . . nothing like walkiing 6 miles with a 3 year old (sorry Shawn) She most definitely hurt and we felt horrible for her. I at one point offered to carry her but thinking back I am pretty sure I would have collapsed if she would have taken me up on the offer. We ended up crossing the finish line and I am happy to have it checked off my bucket list! AND I swore I would never do it again . . . but only a week later I am already thinking about the rematch! Running is such a horrible game :)

Happy Birthday to ME . . . and my girlfriends too :)

2009-11-17T22:13:00.000-08:00

The older I get, the quicker these birthdays seem to arrive. While i LOVE everything about planning birthday parties and wrapping fun, beautiful presents for others, my birthday is something I dont particularly care either way for. Some of you may laugh , but I dont always love the attention on me :) This year, #29 fell on a Saturday and was scheduled to be a HECTIC day from the start. I was hoping to start my morning off with a breezy 20 mile "happy birthday" run, but opted to sleep in after staying up way too late the night before.

Cayden had an early morning soccer game, followed by a pizza party on the field, organized by muah! Followed by Aubrey's soccer game, another soccer game for Cayden, and then a drive to Encinitas for the start (and end) of Aubrey's final softball tournament, with plans to head to dinner with friends after, and then head home for some good quality sleep :)

To further complicate my jam-packed day, sometime in that morning, a work "ordeal" came up and my phone was ringing and buzzing, and ringing and buzzing for Bonnie to find a "fix." I made it through Cayd's first game, pulled off the soccer fiesta, figured out who to pawn my kids off with, and (just a wee bit crabby) headed to work, where I "oh so cheerfully" volunteered to spend my birthday on a plane to Orlando :) . . . I smile in case my boss decides to read this weeks post . . . I was rewarded for my willingness to go and was able to get my package on an airplane without me. I then rushed back (missing Aubrey's game) to pick Cayd up from my mom and get him to his 2nd soccer game. As I got in the car to leave my mom's, she turned to me and with a strange grin and said, "Have fun tonight!" Huh?? What did that mean?? . . . . I thought and thought and then LIGHTBULB . . . i had a pretty good guess and wasn't thrilled but continued on with my day! We made it through Cayd's 2nd game and headed to the coast to watch Aubrey's game. The girls played crappy from the start, it was freezing, Cayden was driving me wacko, and I was sitting by these annoying people from the other team so I suddenly found myself extremely crabby. I wont go into extreme details of the "melt-down" that next occurred but I am pretty sure my friends will think twice before mentioning pizza to me :) I LOVE them!!

We continued on to dinner and then back to Sarah's house for cake and "presents." I knew "something" was occurring at 930 but the friends did an excellent job at confusing my little head and before I knew it - I was in a car headed to Baskin Robbins for ice cream (after the cake) with a friend's husband . . . strange?? Yep, it was STRANGE! But Baskin Robbins again "sparked" the thought I had when my mom gave me the strange goodbye earlier that day. Just days earlier I was sitting eating ice cream with the same friend's husband (and other friends) when I casually mentioned Chippendales! Yeah, I'm an idiot!! . . . . . SO basically, there isn't more to explain. We returned to a dark house, where my suspicions were answered, and before I knew it - was blindfolded and "presented" a lovely fireman :) Below is the one and only decent picture to be shared. Honestly, I didn't know these events were so "hands-on/clothes off!" It was beyond crazy. My friends keep saying next time we will . . . . NOPE, NO WAY! NO NEXT TIME, PERIOD! I learned a valuable lesson. . . .next year when sitting in Baskin Robbins discussing "nevers" just days before my birthday . . . .a cruise with my best friends will slip out :) Wahoo, 30th birthday on a BIG BOAT :)

All Things Halloween

2009-10-31T23:17:00.000-07:00

This year we engaged in a number of Halloween celebrations . . .

We started our celebrating with a surprise trip to Disneyland! The kids had a random weekday off school so I arranged a trip without them know where our destination was! Needless to say, they were thrilled when we arrived on Disney Way! We took Aubs good friend Jamie, who had no memories of her last trip to Disneyland. We had a long day, and tons of fun!!

The next day I hosted "Halloween" dinner club and asked everyone to arrive in costumes. I was prepared with a couple back-up costumes - sure that not everyone would follow directions, but to my surprise - all came dressed in their Halloween Holiday Best! It was a great night with friends!

And what would Halloween be without our annual trip to Bates Nut Farm?? Okay, okay. . . I am lying. Cayden informed me he had never been to the pumpkin patch. . . and searching my memory, I realized we hadnt been to Bates since he was 2. Our recent "Perfect Pumpkin Searches" have occured in those big boxes outside Home Depot and Vons!! Go ahead, call me a terrible mom! So this year, I gave in and took them to the "official Pumpkin Patch!"

My good friend Jessica decided to throw her husband a Spooktacular Halloween Birthday Bash! It was fun to dress up like we were kids again (although some of our costumes were not "kid friendly") and much to our kids dislike, have a much needed "grown up night!"

We also attended the kid's school Halloween Carnival, carved pumpkins, and dressed the kids up for the school parade!

And then there was Halloween Day! Poor Cayden ended up sick late Friday night. We thought maybe his stomach didnt agree with all the celebrating at school on Friday, followed by a night of junk food at the high school football game. But come Saturday morning, he had a pretty gnarly fever and was definitely ill. When I told him Happy Halloween his little lip started to quiver and tears ran down his cheeks, knowing he was going to miss out in the fun of the greatest kids holiday ever! He spent the entire day in my bed with a fever off and on. He was sure he had swine flu and has heard all the news hype and kept asking me "if he was going to make it?" It was so sad.

All day I hoped he would recover enough to go out tricker or treating for just a few minutes. He was happy with that plan, but every time I asked if he wanted to get dressed - he would tell me "in a little while." It was pretty sad. I told my mom we most likely wouldnt be making an appearance at their house :( Sad for broken traditions, but what more could I do to heal this poor little one. My friends changed their plans and moved "Halloween Headquarters" to our house so Aubrey and I could join in the fun. Everyone arrived, we had dinner, and were ready to go trick or treating. Last minute (the motrin must have kicked in) Cayd decided to throw on his costume and go around our neighborhood.

I called my mom to tell her Cayd was up and we would be by! Our crew carivaned to mom and dads neighborhood and to say the least "bombarded them." The kids rang the doorbell , did the trick or treat thing, and all proceded to let themselves in. It was funny - mom was trying to name them all as they walked by her . . . and soon the living room was full!

We stayed just a minute at mom and dads and then proceded to another neighborhood to make a couple more visits. We finished the night off with dessert and apple cider and a lesson in candy sorting and trading (I'm not sure where my friends grew up where they didnt learn how to do this??) Anyways. . . we had an exciting month of October . . . the Halloween decorations will be coming down as we prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas! Hooray for the best time of the year!

Awesome Weekend despite my little OOPS!

2009-10-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Once again, I'm training for a marathon! I have no problem doing the shorter 60 minute runs during the week, but I dread the long weekend runs! Running more than 60 minutes gets SO boring! Its nice to have someone to talk to and help pass the time away! So, with a 16 mile run "scheduled" for last Saturday, I put out a Facebook plea last week for someone to join me. I knew my immediate friends wouldnt be interested (although I got many sweet offers to follow me in a car) but I thought maybe some random "Facebooker" could hook me up with someone?? I got an unexpected offer Thursday night from my sister who lives in Las Vegas to come and join me. I promised her a fun weekend of running (of course), soccer games, softball games and maybe even a meal or two. The plan was quickly made, and she was in town on Friday night. Before bed, we discussed our early morning Saturday run. . . she showed up with a little bit of an attitude - and I compromised to shorten our fun run to 14 miles (she was hoping for 8). I mapped our course out on the internet and at 530 Saturday morning with set out on our way.

Being SUPER busy the last couple weeks, I havent had a chance to talk much with my sisters. Our run was a great time to catch up and gab! We lost track of time and quickly approached our 7 mile turn around point - - - except I couldnt remember the street name and before we knew it - we were at what I remembered to be the 8 mile turn around point! The 8 miles back seemed just as quick (with exception of the last 2 miles and poor Shawnie's hurt knee) but overall the 3 hours went super smooth and when we later went back to clock our run with the car - we found we ran 16.5 miles! Way to go team KELLY!! haha

We had a quick, enjoyable weekend together . . . 2 soccer games, washed cars, relaxed in the spa, dinner at Souplantation, a VERY good Saturday nights sleep, breakfast at IHOP, a litte shopping, 2 softball gamers and it was time for Shawn to head back home. I love my sisters!!

So, the little OOPS in title you ask?? . . . . so I had my planner out today scheduling out my October and noticed the 16 mile run was not on the schedule for this last Saturday. . . we were only supposed to run 8!! OOPS!! The 16 miles are to be ran on the 17th - a date I have stuck in my head becasue it is going to be a busy one. I knew I saw the #16 somewhere! MY BAD!!
I'm counting on Shawna coming back :) or Mol flying in! I love my sisters!!

The Happiest Run on Earth?? I think NOT!

2009-09-20T22:11:00.000-07:00

My sisters and I competed in the Disneyland Half Marathon 2 weeks ago! By now - I am sure most have seen my sister's blog and rendition of the event - So I will make this short and sweet

Basically - all they said was true . . .we had a great day at Disneyland the day before our race (probably not the wisest of choices, but still fun) . . .we had the perfect carb-smart dinner . . .got back to our hotel early to mental prep and get a good nights rest . . . woke up on time ( 430am) and made our way to the starting line! We were ready for this to be over!

I was well trained and ready to go! We wanted to finish the race together and discussed our options the night before if "someone" decided to give up or get grumpy. I was the one OBSESSED with finishing this race in under 2 hours and took on the role as "team leader" (or maybe just bossy big sister)! I had the mile times mapped out in permanent marker on my forearm and was going to lead us to success. :) . . . Yeah . . . that was the plan at least! We wove in and out of "running traffic" like crazy, and somehow missed our first mile time by 20 seconds! I let the girls know we were "way" behind and took off . . . at mile 2 - we were still off, and by mile 3, I learned that Sharpie Permanent Markers aren't so permanent on the forearm when mixed with sweat! My anticipated mile times were now just a giant smudge mark! I was pretty bummed, and told the girls I was fine not making the 2 hour mark. We found a steady pace, and ran on together (and were now "allowed" to stop along the course and pose for picts - which makes me super happy now)!

By mile 5, I was dead! On any given practice day - 5 miles was basically an easy run . . .and here I was not sure how I was possibly going to complete another 8! At this point - Molly (the "someone" we expected to give up or get grumpy) was in the lead and pulling Shawn and I along. For the remainder of the race - this was basically our placement! Molly . . . .Shawna . . . .and Bonnie, as the caboose! In the end - it was Molly who had an amazing race and could have most definitely ditched her "well trained" sisters and gotten the much anticipated time! They both pulled me along, and together we crossed the finish line ( actually, I may have crossed first, oops) and finished our race at 2:09:22! My bummer time was quickly replaced with happiness knowing we were done! Oh well . . . there is always next race :)

2,749th place out of 11,643 ain't too shabby

One day she may kill me for posting this. . . but I couldnt resist :)

2009-08-30T22:56:00.000-07:00

My Aubrey is getting older and has official entered the preteen stage of life (attitude and all)!

1st stop. . . .SHAVED LEGS!!

We went the "Nair Route" and were surprised at the stellar results!
Not much else to say, but thought I would share and shed a tear or two with you . . . I'm getting OLD!

Summertime Ends . . . and School Begins

2009-08-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

The kids had a busy and hectic summer full of fun and adventures but I believe we were all ready to get back to the daily grind of "scheduled lives" and start school! Cayden started the 2nd grade and absolutely adores his teacher! He has had two rough years with teachers, and subs, and long term subs, and more subs (you get the picture??), and I am hoping and praying things will be super this year! I cant wait to see what the year holds for him and all the knowledge he will gain. My Aubrey started the 5th grade, and had her Last, 1st day of Elementary school :( Where did my little girl go?? We are thrilled that she has the same teacher she had last year and know her last year in elementary school will be great! Wishing my kiddos an amazing year :)

Cayden's Birthday Fun

2009-08-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

My little Monster turned 7!! I'm still in shock and feel my baby grew up in a snap, but I am very much enjoying this big kid stage in life. He is a wild and crazy kid, full of energy and ideas. I love him more and more each day!!

So the PARTY you ask??
I had this "brilliant" idea to celebrate with a backyard birthday campout at grandma and grandpa's house. I would love to tell you I stopped with just "the idea" and took my Cayden to Disneyland, but I didnt. I planned and executed this party . . . .and next year we will be going to Disneyland :)
Boys are SO SO different than girls. I was lucky to have the help of my parents and a couple close friends - without them, I would not have survived the 17 LONG hours with 8 young boys and 3 preteen girls :) I was in over my head from the start, but Cayden had fun (or at least we think??) and I lived to learn NEVER again - So I suppose we call that success!!

Highlights included pillowcase decorating, a hike at Dixon Lake, swimming in the Kelly Lake, Campfire with mallows, bug ice cream cake, and BEDTIME (wahoo) in tents :)

The following morning we loaded the tents in the car and headed to a "Farewell to Summer Campout" with friends. I was beyond tired and not thrilled about night #2 in a tent but it turned out to be an AMAZING trip!! We ended up with 6 families and some stragglers and had lots of fun hanging out for the day! This was Cayden's actual birthday, so again we celebrated with cake and presents from mommy! He was SHOCKED and ESTATIC to receive the paintball gun he has been saving up for months to buy. He cant wait for his first "battle" but got to spend the next morning after campling shooting rocks at the campground! The kid is in heaven!!

Dr. Cayden

2009-08-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

I cant remember how it exactly it all got started but a year or two ago Cayden decided (or was perhaps persuaded by his mother) to become a dermatologist when he grows up! Since then - ask the boy what he wants to be and that's exactly what he will tell you. So a couple of weeks ago - after a long, unsuccessful battle with a hand growth AKA wart- I sucked it up and decided to go see the dermatologist. I was given the 1st in a series of shots and sent home. When Cayd found out I had visited the Dermatologist without him he was bummed out, and I promised next time he could go. 3 Weeks later - it was back to the office and at 8 am, on Summer vacation, Cayden was as excited as ever to be there in that office! We took some picts and I showed him some lovely "skin disease" pamphlets as we waited for the Doctor to come in and check my hand. Of course - Cayden (my little character) greeted the doctor . . . "Good morning Dr. (and without a second breathe) I'm going to be working here with you soon!!" I told the doctor his "dream" and the doctor gave Cayden a pep talk - a "do good in school and work hard in college" chat. . . it was very cute and Cadyen is still thrilled to drive his Porche to work one day - even after all those years in college:)
Cayden was the photographer here - although, I think he was hoping the doctor was going to let him actually give me the shot! Crazy Kid!

Yeah for Family Week . . . I think my dad is referring to us now as the "Fabulous 13," I'll let you be the judge :)

2009-08-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, Maybe I made the" fabulous" thing up . . . I guess I think we are pretty fabulous :) The night prior to our big family vacation to the river, mom took us all (minus the grown up men) to see Wicked!!
The show was amazing . . . the rest of the night is still not being talked about (maybe a couple of us got a little "wicked")! No comment. . . THE END!!

I'm a little late on blogging this event, and am sure most of my "followers" have seen my families rendition of the "Annual" (or not so) Kelly Family River Trip - so I will make my version short and sweet!! Like always, put our family together and we have a pretty grand time. Overall - I think we like one another (maybe more so on a cruise ship and not at the hot river) and and have fun together! Our trip was pretty short but the memories shall last forever (haha, trying to be a little cheesy here)! Enjoy my chosen picts. . .

The Joys of Road trips . . . . attempting to entertain ourselves (even while driving and focusing on the road :)

Dad and the windstorm . . . us after the long day and battling the "wind storm"

Random LONG tangent to a funny SHORT story

2009-07-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

I dont especially love to play games, but when I do play - I am always changing the rules and making up knew ones in hopes of winning . . . Just ask my dad, I dont think he is super fond of playing games with me. I lOVE to win (there is something great about a little competition) and my inventive rules usually get me there:)

So back in the day when me and my sisters lived in the same casa, we unsuccessfully started to run in the mornings. The worst thing about running in the morning isnt the actually running, but the initial task of dragging your butt out of bed and putting on those shoes. It was super easy to talk each other out of running as the snooze button was hit and we all rolled over and went back to sleep. I honestly dont really remember who came up with the successful method of getting us up - but its my blog and I like making rules, so I'm going to take the credit here . . . I came up with this rotation, and on your given day you were responsible for getting the other 2 out of bed. You did whatever it took (blanket stealing and cold water all fair game), and if for some reason you failed, and the 3 of us didnt run on your morning - you paid a fine to your "fine Jar!" At the end of a given number of weeks, the person with the least amount of money in their jar acquired the money in the other jars. The method worked like magic and we were successful early morning runners. Over time - our running fine jars have become our "break all our bad habits jar" and occasionally (you may have been a part of one of our "fine jar competitions" at one point or another) we start up month long competitions with all sorts of rules and regulations (it can get complicated. . . we have rules and exceptions for all sorts of situations. . . diets, eating out, running, sit ups, sweets consumed, cleaning the bathroom, etc) and pay fines for breaking our personal rules.

I swear this is about to tie together. . . .

So I am making dinner the other night . . . shocking I know, Bonnie cooking dinner? Yeah yeah, I am cooking partly because it is National Lasagna Day (but that's for another blog) and partly because it is one of my rules for our current competition-in a desperate measure to eat out less, my sisters have insisted I cook dinner twice a week (its all about the baby steps)- anyways, back to the cooking. . . this whole cooking thing is still new to my kids - we have only been doing the rules for a couple of weeks and if you take a look at my jar (above)- i have obviously paid a few fines. . . so I'm cooking and Cayden comes wandering in the kitchen, observing the dinner making process and makes a request that went something like this . . .

Hey mom, tomorrow (yeah right, I for sure dont cook 2 days in a row) can you make that stuff - you know, like they show on tv. . . when you get all the stuff out of the fridge and put it on the table and you get to pick what to eat, or mix it up - - - whats it called?? he is thinking. . . .

LEFTOVERS honey??

Yeah mom - LEFTOVERS!! (like its the coolest meal on the planet)

My kid is requesting leftovers? Shawna was in the kitchen with me and we both laugh! Little does Cayden know - his mom has to cook more than every 3 weeks to build up enough food in the fridge to give him his awesome leftover night! Kids are so funny! And that's the abrupt end to my long story :)

I ♥ Twilight

2009-07-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

Okay so maybe a bit immature for my old age but I admit, since reading the series, I am infatuated with Twilight and living the life of a vampire (with Edward of course) . . . Lucky for me . . . we accidentally stumbled across the opportunity to get tickets to the rescreening of the movie with live cast introductions! Super excited, my sister Shawna and I decided it would be fun to get all decked out for the event and made a trip to Hot Topic to do just that. After spending way to much money on 6 unmatching, not super cute shirts, we decided last minute to create our own. i wont venture too much farther into this process . . . lets just say, I was so so crabby, we stayed up way too late, and my sister was super wonderful when I sent her home and then called her at midnight begging her to come back to help me . . . in the end, we looked pretty dang adorable!!

When we picked the tickets up at the theatre the day before the event the guy laughed at me when I asked if our tickets were a "for sure" thing. He assured me the ticket of course guaranteed our admittance. So I suppose I didn't give it any second thought, or worried about the crowd, and was pretty much shocked (to say the least) when we arrived and attempted to find the end of the longest line in the history of my eyes (okay so maybe a bit of a stretch, but it was pretty dang long)!! We weaved our matching group of kiddos through the blocks of people and finally found the end. We settled for just a short moment, and made a quick phone call to some friends who arrived an hour or so before us, and then ventured to move a few blocks up and slip into line with them. Here we finally parked and spent the next couple of hours! The time passed quickly - there were many funny and strange people to watch, and activities/advertising tactics moving through the line. I haven't quite figured it out yet - I'm either the cool mom or the bad mom for letting my kids see Twilight because we didn't see any other kids in line. Because of this, my kids got lots of attention from all these advertisers moving through the lines. . . and overall, they had loads of fun and were pretty well behaved!!

Our shirts proved to be a hit and we posed for many photos for impressed Twilight fans!

Look for us on Fandango.com under comic-con 2009

Before our turn to enter the theatre we were interviewed for the extra section of the New Moon DVD. My question and answer interview pretty much sucked but we are hoping the kids get on for being totally cute :)

We finally made it into the theatre at about 8PM. At this point, there was talk and rumors that the entire cast had already left. Seriously like 5 people behind us listened to this total stranger and got out of line and left - just steps from the entrance. We decided there was no way everyone left and would leave their fans sad. We were escorted to the silver theatre (all 15 theatres were color coded and you were only allowed into the one with your matching wrist band) where we got 2nd row seats, and left to wait a few more minutes in suspense. A women finally came in and one by one introduced our theatres cast members.
Anna Kendrick, Michael Welch, Elizabeth Reaser, and Peter Facinelle were our theatre's hosts. . .
AKA Jessica, Mike, Esme, and Carlisle

I must admit - I was super disappointed at first but quickly discovered Carlisle was a good Edward replacement. Awwww!! The group answered questions for about 10 minutes! It was super cool to watch the movie right after and see how different their personalities were on screen, as compared to in person. We had a super great time and may even suck it up and go to Comic-Con with all the super crazy people next year :)

Just call me Tiger Woods

2009-07-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

OR NOT . . .

Cayd and I randomly ended up at the driving range with friends last weekend and had SO MUCH FUN!! I was horrible and dont have a clue how you get the ball to go where you want, and guess I have a new respect for those who do, but I am totally excited to attempt and figure it out!

Love to my "Nanny!"

2009-07-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

Near the end of each school year I get all stressed out and wonder what I am going to do with my kids all summer long! My sister Shawna is a school teacher with summers off and once again came to my rescue this summer. She offered to move home and watch my pests (oops Kids) for FREE!! I have the BESTEST family ever (and know Molly would do the same if she was able)! My kids are super lucky!! Aunt Shawna . . . AKA "My Nanny" (thats what I like to call her) is the GREATEST!! She has everyday day scheduled, and my kids are having a blast! Legoland Mondays, free movie Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Beach Thursday, and Swimming pool Fridays. She also takes care of piano lessons, daily piano practice, teaching Aubrey all her states and capitals (hoping to be ahead of the game for 5th grade), enforcing 60 minute reading time, practicing math facts with Cayden, afternoons at the library, occasionally meeting mommy for Lunch, orthodontist appointments, sick duty, chuck e cheese time, a visit to the wave, and even takes care of Aubrey's sleepover friends! She does it all, with a smile on her face, and captures all the events I miss with pictures! She is also my 5am marathon training partner (I wouldnt get up without her) and my Bachelorette watching buddy! I have been lucky to sneak away from work every so often and join in their fun! Thanks for sharing the Summer with us Shawn!!

Sorry for the long absence friends. . . I learned to read!

2009-07-15T18:05:00.000-07:00

Unlike their mother, my kiddos have always LOVED to read (I believe it is the only thing that can calm Caydens active little body) but during the Summer, even with good intentions, it is super easy to let the daily reading slip through the cracks. So in the hopes of keeping their little minds active, I made a deal with them that if they read 60 minute every day of summer they would each get $50 on their first day back at school. With summer about half way over, I am happy to report they have done awesome and haven't missed a single day (with the exception of their day with the stomach flu this week- I figured that deserved a by) Their books go everywhere they go. They are required to read before spending the night anywhere and when friends sleep over, they too have to spend the hour reading. I'm pretty sure I will be out $100 dollars in September

I on the other hand, have never been much of a reader. . . imagine that, a school teacher who doesnt like to read? Dont tell any of my students! So with me guilting the kids to read, I thought it only fair that I attempt the reading task with them. Because of the movie, I started with the book My Sisters Keeper and immediately became enthralled and have read book after book. My family laughs at me for being a reading fool (hense, the lack of posts this summer - you'll just have to trust me that we have had an amazing summer)!! I finally joined the bandwagon and just finished the Twilight series! I LOVED them! So Bonnie is no longer searching for just a husband . . . Mr. Perfect will also need to be a vampire :)

Another one bites the DUST!!

2009-06-25T21:16:00.001-07:00

Haha, Just Teasing of course :)
My congrats go out to Danielle and Johnny who were married last month. The wedding was beautiful and happiness is most definitely instore for the two. Best of luck in your new home town, I hope you are adjusting to a life with chocolate!! You will be missed!!

Maybe I will be a Sushi Chef . . . No will power required!!

2009-06-13T13:41:00.000-07:00

I have always had a passion for planning parties. I love thinking of a theme, making the perfect invitation, planning the menu, decorating, activities, party favors, etc. When my sister got married a couple of years ago, it occured to us that our family could start a one stop wedding planning company. Amongst the Kelly sisters - we can cover organizing, invites, flowers&decor, and hair & make-up! Our one missing piece was a cake maker. I have always loved baking - so it was kind of a given that I would be the one to learn to make wedding cakes. Shortly after her wedding, I got out of school (after 9 years) with a teaching credential and it quickly became a joke that I would again be enrolling in the fall to get my pastry chef degree. Time has passed and my sisters and I realize pleasing "bridezillas" isnt truely our passion, but my dream to make fancy cakes has stuck in my mind.

After making our best attempt to make our kiddos birthday cakes (see picts below) in May, my friend Jessica asked if I would enroll in the Michaels cake decorating classes with her. My friend Audra took the series of classes, and her cakes turned out amazing so I figured I would give it a shot - no harm in a little cake decorating instruction - or is there???

At class #1 we got a demo, learned some tricks, were given some recipes, and were sent on our way that night to buy a crap load of supplies and return the following week with a frosted cake in hand and a bowl full of decorating frosting. WOW, what a week!! My life became revolved around cakes and frosting! Making frosting, sampling frosting, coloring frosting, baking cakes, trying out recipes, licking cake batter dishes. I consumed more sugar that week than I think I have all year (okay so maybe a little stretch, but it was pretty bad)! So, in the safety of my health and my waistline, I have decided that these first four classes will be the end of my cake decorating journey. I cant imagine you would recognize me at the end of 20 straight weeks of frosting galore!!

Below are the pictures from class #2 . . . we had tons and tons of fun (our friend Leah is taking the classes with us too), BUT this is as fancy as my cake career will get :)

The return of Bonnie. . . .ready for the catch-up?? Post #1 "Our Super Fun Weekend"

2009-06-01T22:10:00.000-07:00

I have been missing in action from the blogging world for quite some time, and am ready to attempt a quick 7 week?? backwards recap!! We have been super lucky to have some jam-packed weekends and are ready for a little down time.

This last Saturday we got to go to DISNEYLAND! Shawna came down from Las Vegas and met us there. In our 16 hour adventure, we conquered both parks and had a great time! The kids did wonderful, and had very few "crabby moments." We booked a cute little hotel room across the street and were thrilled to not have to drive home that night. It was an excellent day!

We woke up in our hotel early, early Sunday morning to get home, drop the kiddos off at grandmas, and get to DANIELLE'S BACHELORETTE PARTY at the Glen Ivy Day Spa! I had always wanted to visit the spa in Corona and was happy to do it in celebration of Danielle's wedding. I had a very enjoyable day with friends, and many of Danielle's family members. The highlight of the relaxing day was the Mudd Club experience. Here are some fun photo shots! I knew Danielle had a wild and "dirty" side :) Congratulations Danielle and Johnny!!

Catch-up Post #2 . . . Last Weekend. . . Happy Birthday Aubrey

2009-06-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Aubrey's weekend long birthday celebration . . .
She made it to 10!!

The celebrating began Friday night with her slumber party with friends! We had dinner at Chilis, made an appearance at "Cruising Grand" in Jessica's Hummer, decorated giant cardboard guitars (they turned out super cute), played American idol, watched Twilight, and transformed my living room into one giant, comfy bed! Aubrey was all smiles and had a great night. The girls all got along super well and there was minimal party drama :)

On Saturday - Shawna, Molly, and Bryan were all able to sneak away and visit California for the weekend (Scott, Rachel and their kiddos also came down)! We spent the weekend in mom and dad's backyard and had lots and lots of fun in the pool and playing the new an improved Kelly version of backyard Butts up! Its always good to be with our family! We ended the long weekend, celebrating Aub's actual birthday on Memorial day. We went out to breakfast, got pedicures with the Aunties, had family birthday presents and cake and then headed to Valley Center for a BBQ with friends. It was a great weekend! Happy birthday to my little angel!!

Catch-up Post #3. . . .the weekend before that :)

2009-06-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

LEGOLAND WITH AMIGOS. . . .We hadnt been to one of our favorite spots in quite some time, and with 6 free passes about to expire, we decided to take along a group of friends. We had a great time! The weather was absolutely perfect and the company was exquisite :) haha

On Sunday I took the kids and Aubrey's good friend Jamie to a PADRES game!! We took a short ride from our car to the game with one of those bike taxis. So cool :) My brother gave me super good tickets, but after the kids ate ice cream in the 4th inning, our seats were too cold and we had to relocated to the fun kids outfield area. The kids had fun playing, I worked on my tan (and took a tiny little nap) and were pleasantly surprised when the game was suddenly OVER!! I'm not sure I have ever stayed for a complete Padres game!! I think it was the quickest game ever, and they WON!! Wahoo Padres!

Catch-up Post #4 . . . the weekends before that?? and everything else I forgot!!

2009-06-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

Auntie Shawna graduated with her Masters in eduacation late last year and participated in the ceremony a couple of weeks ago. She is currently teaching in Las Vegas, but the school she got the masters through was in Cedar City, Utah. We took a quick trip to Utah to see the ceremony. The majority of the weekend was spent in the car -blah- (I am so not a road trip person) but it was great to celebrate with her and our family. We also got to spend a night in Las Vegas and meet a couple of Shawna's "boys!" Las Vegas was certainly a good move for Shawn's Social life :) Congrats on your new degree Shawna!!

For a week of their SpringBreak, my kids went with Grandma to Indianapolis to visit Aunt Molly and Uncle Bryan. I have been away from my kids before, but I had never been home and had them gone. It was a different experiance. I enjoyed a little down time and got to spend some kidless nights with my sister, my dad, and friends. I cant say I got a whole lot accomplished like I had planned but it was nice to have a little break :)

Spring Break outting with Amber and her Kiddos Allie and Seth! We rode the Sprinter to Oceanside, went to Rubis on the pier and had out first beach day of the year! We dont visit with Amber and her family enough - but always enjoy their company when it happens :)

Aubrey's Softball season ended with a Sunday trip to the Storm game in Lake Elsinore. It is always a fun and sunny day. Its good to have softball behind us (at least for a month or too) and are ready to move on to soccer!!

Okay. . . I think that officially concludes my catch-up posts, I hope to never neglect the blogging world for quite so long!! Hope life is great for all my friends and family out there :)

Our walk to the beach . . . from Escondido :)

2009-04-11T23:39:00.000-07:00

So a couple of days ago my sister and I came up with this crazy plan to walk to the beach . . . not even sure how the idea got started, I think it was Shawna (she tends to be the "strange" one). . . but anyhooo, I agreed to the idea and the rest is history!

On Friday, I received a little doubt from those at work, but if you know me . . . tell me I cant do something and I will go out of my way to prove you wrong (guess I am a tiny bit stubborn like that)! So when we woke up at 6am to super gray, cloudy skies, wet sidewalks, and a morning of showers in the weather forecast, we put on our running shoes (and sweatshirts) and headed out as planned!

We mapped out our route a few days prior and found a course complete with sidewalks and safe neighborhoods :) -Country Club to Woodland to Mission to San Marcos Blvd to Palomar Airport Drive, leading straight to the coast! We ran the first leg, we believe about 5 miles and made our first stop at 711 for drinks (and a donut for Shawn - so much for the healthy aspect of the day)! Besides four sore legs, two swollen hands (haha), a few blisters on Shawna's feet, and a couple of rain scares, we had a worry free adventure! We walked and talked, laughed about our endeavour, posed like tourists, and overall had a lot of fun! We kind of expected it to be a day long adventure, but surprisingly reached Carlsbad beach (or the cliffs of) at 11:15am (yep, still in the morning hours)! We somehow manage to find a path and tumble down the mountain to the rocky shore where we touched the water as planned, and then returned back to the outlet mall where our lovely ride home awaited!

Below are the pictures mapping out our 18 mile journey!

Whether they like it or not, my kiddos are going to be RUNNERS!! haha, they LOVE hearing that!

2009-04-05T23:14:00.000-07:00

Determined to having my children follow in my foot tracks (quite literally) I signed them up to run in the Jr. Carlsbad. The race took place this past Saturday and I am happy to report they did very well! I didnt have super high expectations. . . I didnt have much success getting them to practice running the last couple of weeks (and when I did, it usually ended in thrown water bottles and tears -gotta love my Aubrey's preteen attitude)! And on race day, they were less than thrilled to wake up at 6am on their first day of Spring break! So I was very, very surprised when they both ended their individual race with smiles on their faces and a great attitude about competing in the future!

Auntie Shawna happened to be in town visiting for the day, and Aubrey's friend Jamie was a good sport and woke up early to go cheer them on (I think next year I will have her trained too)! We got there in plenty of time to check in, browse the Health Expo, and collect their race gear and fun samples!

The races were by age level - Aubrey competed in the mile with the 9 year olds and to my surprise ran almost the entire way! So proud!! Cayden competed in the half mile with the 6 year olds and also did a stellar job (although, I think he was hoping to win)! But honestly, I think there favorite part was the Jamba Juice (and other treats) at the finish line!
Cant wait to run a marathon with my kiddos in the future!!

Another week of SMILES and fun!

2009-04-03T22:11:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Aubrey received the Super Bronco award at school, and the same day report cards came home . . . surprise surprise. . . Aubrey is a stunning student! She does so so very well in school and is the student any teacher would be happy to have a class full of! She makes school look so easy! She makes me proud, and I am pretty dang lucky she is mine!

This last week Cayden got in a fight with a teatherball at school and received the most adorable injury ever. . . that 2nd tooth fell out, making momma quite happy. Yeah yeah, I am his mom and maybe a wee bit bias, but that toothless smile melts my heart!

Then I messed up. . . On the way home from school, I was cleaning out the car at the gas station, and accidently threw the ziplock baggie with the tooth away. We had a difficult evening trying to figure out how to "prove" to the toothfairy that Cayden truely lost another tooth that day. I finally convinced him to write her a letter and I would sign it! We then had to take a picture of the toothless kid! The camera and note then went under the pillow (making for a bumpy sleeping night) and I somehow convinced him that the toothfairy senses the hole in the mouth and not just the tooth under the pillow! Luckily, she made her appearance and left him $5 bucks! Thanks toothfairy for not getting poor mom busted!!

Last night we went to Art Night at the kids school and had lots and lots of fun learning new crafts! Everyone know, Bonnie and crafts equal smiles!! haha! The night also featured an auction of art items created by each class. This year Cayden's class created a tie die quilt and Aubrey's class created a decorative stained glass piece. Cayden was addament we win the quilt. He babysat the silent auction sheet all night and upped the bid everytime we were outbid! Luckliy, there were not tons of kids from his class present, and we were able to pull off the win. He is so so proud of this quilt and is currently asleep and wrapped up in it! Good job teachers for the great projects!

This week Cayden also attended his first "non-family friend girls birthday party!" He was stoked it was the type of party where I dropped him off and picked him up at the end! I had many many funny laughs for the week preceeding the party. I learned all about "little Nataly" through Cayden's "boy" eyes. He couldnt believe she was having a "girl" party (pink, fairy invitations) when she is "barely a girl. . . you know mom - one of those girls who is like a boy!" I had to convince him to buy her a present from Justice (the store for girls) where he found the only, no sparkle, no pink shirt that the store had. It was so funny how perfect his gift had to be. He also INSISTED getting her and him matching friendship braclets - too cute! So I was totally blown away when I showed up to Nataly's party and met this little girl in the most adorable pink party dress, ruffle socks, satin white shoes, and cute little hair bows! She was adorable!! Just goes to prove . . . boys are too funny and clueless from the start!!

Oh what a day!

2009-03-26T23:54:00.000-07:00

Sad days just happen!!
Its inevitable . . . life is full of disappointments, events and situations that make us sad . . .

. . . Watching Aubrey's softball team lose game after game! Maybe I did like the winning stress better than this crappy losing!
. . . I havent run in 3 weeks, and just downloaded an application to be the next contestant on the Biggest Loser (okay, so not quite that bad but its getting there)!
. . . Decorating for Easter and realizing the framed picture of me and the old best friend, the one who called and decided over voicemail that we were no longer best friends, and hasnt called to explain since (yeah, that one!), is still up and needs to be replaced! (which by the way, totally hurt my feelings. Glad I meant that much to you :) Hope your perfect life circumstances never makes you so busy - your new best friend cant deal and ditches out on you! (wow, guess I have some built up emotion)
. . . Attempting to explain to my Cayden (in a smart way) that some people, his dad being one of them, are idiots and he ditched out on knowing an amazing boy.
. . . Busted at school for giving the kids candy. . . it wasnt even very much - seriously what parents call and tattle on a teacher for that??
. . . Driving by the Amber Dubois banners and posters everyday and knowing her parents are helpless and empty without her!
. . . seeing that loser old boyfriend with his new girlfriend and cute little made family :BLAH:

We all have these days and honestly, despite it all I had a pretty chipper and cheerful day! Especially when I got out of the shower tonight and found my kids (30 mins past their bed time) curled up in my bed reading. It was adorable and made me smile :) My kids LOVE to read and it makes me so proud! How can I possible dwell on all that sad??

A pinch of this, a pinch of that

2009-03-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring friends . . . the month of March has kept us busy and active and provided lots of smiles and laughs! Cayden received the "Super Bronco Award" at school, and was honored for all his hard work in class! He is busy playing soccer and considering auditioning for another play (just needs to convince Aubrey to participate and maybe I will come around too)! He just lost his 3rd tooth and is totally stoked! (he even let me do the honors and pull that sucker out) I'm hoping that 2nd top tooth falls out before the new one grows in the hole - I LOVE that!!

Aubrey is busy playing softball . . . she has THREE games this week!! She works hard and loves the friendships she has made. Her team isnt the greatest this year but its kind of nice not having the stress of being on the best team. They win some, and lose some, but have lots of fun!! She is a good girl. Yesterday she and I got to go with some girlfriends to an American Girl Fashion Show fundraiser. I know it wont be long til she has completely grown up and left that doll stage behind. We had a nice "little girl" day together.

The Kellys love St. Patricks Day! We got all "greened" up and were safe from pinches at school and work! We spent the evening with friends at the park searching for leprechauns and treasure but in the end found only Subway and girlscout cookies :)

We are lucky to have super friends and spend lots of time together. Last week we played a roaring game of La Loteria (Mexican Bingo) . . . we had too much fun and are in the process of creating our very own cards! I'm a geek, I know!!

My cousin Jody and her husband Tate recently welcomed Baby Jocelyn Jade into their family. Isnt she adorable! We got to go watch the baby blessed at church this last Sunday and spent the afternoon at grandpas for lunch and visiting with the family!

Beauty and the Beast

2009-03-02T21:37:00.001-08:00

Here's the pirated video of Cayds performance . . . he is the one with the flame on his head :)

We had a crazy February. . . .

2009-03-01T21:38:00.000-08:00

Softball Games Began. . . Go Warriors!! Soccer games began. . . Yeah Jaguars!! And Cayden had his final month of practice with his theatre group!! This weekend all that practice paid off with an amazing production (6 showings) of Beauty and the Beast!! Cayden was the cutest enchanted candlestick ever!! With the play finished, we are hoping for a calmer March??

Tour De California

2009-02-26T20:54:00.000-08:00

So we arent bike people, but had to jump on the biking band wagon when the big race came to our very own town!! I debated going to the finish line, but instead decided to walk with some friends down the street to where the race practically passed through our backyard!! We waited for almost 2 hours, and in the end the bike race part was quicker and different than expected (dont ask, I guess I imagined them dismounting their bikes and strolling down the street for us to view and snap great shots), but it made for a fun Sunday afternoon activity and we were glad we went!

Picture Captions: Most of the kiddos we ventured to the biking even with! I love love love Lemonade stands and always stop to buy from kids. I cant tell you how many times I sold lemonade as a kid, and Im not sure if we ever got a single customer!! Cayden is such a boy, any excuse to pee on a tree!! Aubrey and Anna ready to go home :) oh, and I forgot. . . Lance Armstrong is in that top photo

I dont get it??

2009-02-16T21:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the fattest man in the world got married, and Bonnie can't even get a boyfriend! Not that I have anything against 1200 pound men, but come-on, the guy eats, sleeps, baths, and urinates in the same bed!! How in the world did he find a wife from his bed?? I am SO upping my Oreo intake tonight!!! Congratulations for finding that special lady "FatMan!!"

My "Big Boat" Vacation

2009-02-15T22:00:00.000-08:00

So, it has been a couple weeks since I got back from my AMAZING vacation but I still deem it worthy of a post!! The minute we got back my life became as hectic as ever, but with the rain and canceled sports practices; I am finally getting a chance to reflect on my trip. Sparing you all the details . . . I will give you a few of the highlights, and if you wish, feel free to view a handful of the thousand+ pictures taken over the course of the 8 days! The trip was completely relaxing. There was lots and lots to do on the boat, and as my family explored, I basically spent my days lying by the pool in the warm sun. The kiddos loved being in the pool and I enjoyed mingling in the spa with the old folks! In an attempt to balance "cruise eating and the average 2 pound/day weight gain" I dragged my sisters out of bed early each morning to run on the top deck of the ship . . . the most beautiful track view ever!! We made every attempt to walk the 10 flights of stairs from our room to the main deck of the ship every time!! We visited the gym and made a daily visit to the steam room - something I fell in love with (although if you were in that room with me on my first visit you would have never guessed)! We got to explore some of the most beautiful (and not so beautiful) places in Mexico and although nice to visit, at the end of the day it was great to get back on the ship and remind us how thankful we are to live where we do. There weren’t a ton of kids on the ship. Our kiddos roamed and explored at their leisure, made friends, and became quite comfortable with much of the staff. My sister in law and I laugh . . . It wasnt bad enough that the bartenders new our kiddos by name, but some of the bar patrons were also quit chummy with them. My brother liked to see how quickly he could drain the pool of the older folk and we were referred to as the "cannonball family! (not sure that was a great thing)" Overall, we ate too much, slept too little, got a bit too much sun, drank way too many diet cherry cokes (with extra maraschino cherries), and had lots and lots of fun!! At the end of the trip, mom and dad were surprised to find nobody was ready to go home, and we are all eagerly awaiting our next get away!! I am lucky to be part of such a great family and am forever indebt to my parents for taking us on such a great family vacation! We are a growing family and it was great for all 13 of us to be together and create life long memories!! Oh yeah . . . I forgot to mention I had to drag my bother away from an almost fist fight (with a well deserving passenger) but thats a whole different story!!

Happy Inauguration Day

2009-01-20T20:24:00.000-08:00

So to be honest, I didn’t vote for the chap, but on this day, all that is put behind us, and we join as a nation to back the President of the United States 100%! My kids are super excited with the new president and like millions of kids across the country, got to watch the ceremony and Obama's speech in class. I myself was in a 5th grade classroom as we watched history unravel today, as the nation welcomed the 1st black president of the United States. After the speech, the teacher of the class I was in told the kids that they would probably remember this day for the rest of their lives. Although they may not have been entirely interested today, as they get older and learn more about the world, they will realize the importance of the day and remember being in that 5th grade room. So true!! We often remember crazy details of important events for years and years! So on the way home tonight, I grilled my kids about what they had learned today. I was asking them questions and asked Cayd if he remembered learning how many presidents we have had. He was convinced Obama was number 5!! Aubrey corrected him but he was sure . . . No way mom, he is #5. . . President Lincoln, President Washington, Teddy Roosevelt, President Hinkley (the former president of our church) President Bush, and Obama (which would actually make 6)!! I assured him that Obama was the 44th and those former presidents were just memorable to him . . . . Fine mom! Name the others!! . . . haha, sadly I realized I suck and rambled out just a handful of other former presidents! I guess I should buy those president cards and together Cayden and I can learn something :) Welcome President Obama!!

After 100 picture attempts, this is the best I got! The kids werent thrilled, but certainly a cool one to have years down the road!

Going on Vacation with BIG Kiddos

2009-01-20T19:06:00.000-08:00

We leave for our big Family Cruise on Friday and I am so, so, so, beyond excited to go on a vacation with self sufficient kids! We have gone on 2 of these family cruises . . . once when Aubrey was 2, and once when Cayden was 2 (Aubrey 5)! I know I had fun on those trips, but I cant imagine how great it will be with my big kids!! They can both swim, and walk, and play without my constant guidance. I dont need to worry about adjusting to different sleeping arrangements, napping, changing diapers, crabby babies, late dinners and most important, I wont have to fear they will fall overboard (okay, maybe still with Cayden who will most definitely go looking for trouble)!! Did I mention I am stoked?? Here are a couple picts of those past trips! They definitely were cuter back then, but so much more work!! Bring on the vacation :)

Lissa's Public Comment

2009-01-18T18:59:00.000-08:00

For some reason I wasnt able to comment directly on Lissas post so this seemed like the next easiest option. . . .Congrats on wedding descisions - we all know how decisive our little Lissa can be - glad you were able to choose so quickly!! We are excited for your big day and will be sure to mark the calendar!! I took the virtual tour of your wedding location and it looks beautiful - its very familiar, and I am sure I have been there for a wedding before?? Who Knows!! Let me know if I can do anything for ya - like book a florists, hairstylist, or help with the invites :)

Life with a 2nd Job

2009-01-15T19:55:00.000-08:00

I had a rough start but am happy to report I have survived week 2 with a second job.Things started rocky. . . I some how managed to miss my very first day at my new job. . . .who does that?? I got a message on my cell that Monday morning asking where I was. . . guess some one forgot to tell me when I started! And although that totally wasnt my fault, it started this new chapter in my life off on the wrong path. 10 days later. . . .I think I have adjusted to it all! Learning new faces, knowing my new responsibilities, juggling my old responsiblities, my family, and my attitude! My social life, tv watching and running have been put on the back burner til I figure out how to create a couple more hours in the day (or maybe more than a couple. . . the kids start softball and soccer next month)! My apologies for all those who I may neglect by default . . . hopefully June will be here before we know it :)

Happy 2009 . . . no sugar, no soda, too much running. . . it's bound to be an exciting year!!

2009-01-02T23:56:00.000-08:00

Like most, I got lost in the festivities of December and have neglected my blogging duties :) All in all, 2008 ended great!! We were lucky to spend lots and lots of time with our friends and family this holiday season and look forward to a new year and many more adventures! Here are a few of Decembers highlights

Some friends and I took our crew of kiddos to the last Festival of Lights at the Wild Animal Park! As always, the lights were fun but my kids especially loved the face painting, snowy hill and hot cocoa!

Like always, Christmas at the Kelly house treated us well! I am truely blessed and have a family who definitely has the givng aspect of the season mastered!! We planned Christmas to be small since we my whole family leaves on a 7 day cruise in a couple weeks . . . . surprise surprise the Kellys dont do anything small . . . I am lucky to be in such a wonderful family with parents who take good care of their kiddos!! Besides the cruise, my favorite present is a toss up between my new dishwasher (what could possible be in the running with a dishwasher you ask??) Yep. . . my new Uggs! Cant wait til I have the sizing issue worked out and I get to have warm feet :)

Molly and Shawna did the flowers for a good friends wedding, and the day after Christmas turned mom and dad's house into a mini flower shop. We all tried to be helpful but basically watched as talented Molly created! Like always, her flowers turned out amazing and mom and dad are finding out the real reason they put in a ginormous fridge . . .

We rang in the New Year with Auntie Molly and Shawna, Cousin James, and Aub's friend Jamie at Legoland! We got there late in the afternoon, rode a couple of rides, ate apple fries (one must do if you ever visit Legoland), and then gathered for the 2009 Lego brick falling (Yeah, we never found this) and fireworks display at midnight (6pm kid time)! Legoland was beyond crowded and loud (a trillion kids blowing those noisy horns!! YIKES!) but we had lots of fun taking pictures and being silly!

We then went to Islands for dinner and then back to mom and dads for our traditional appearance in the spa, and played wii til midnight!!
I hope everyones new year has started off exceptional and you havent quit on those new year resolutions quite yet :)

1648th Place and so so SORE

2008-12-08T20:30:00.000-08:00

I got home today from my weekend trip to Las Vegas where I ran my first half marathon with my sister Shawna. I may not have won (sorry to disappoint Sarah), but I survived and crossed the finish line, and suppose that is all that truly matters!! The overall experience was really good and am glad to have it crossed off my list . . . next up . . . the FULL marathon. Yikes!! After Sunday and crossing that finish line, I couldn’t imagine having to turn around and do the course all over again, but maybe with some hardcore training, I would live through it too?? I sure hope so.

I am new to this Marathon thing but I imagine the participants in Vegas are a little more costumed-up, than participants in any other city. The "entertainment" and people watching along our run was quite enjoyable and really helped pass the time. . . Elvises (and Elvas??woman), Fat Santas and skinny Santas, sleezy dresses, feather boas, green tutus, corners filled with peeing men?? . . . . There are definitely some crazy people in this world and I think 99% of them venture in Las Vegas. Our course even featured a run-through wedding chapel . . . Only in Vegas right??

My goal was to finish in under 2 hours (1 hour, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds would have been acceptable) . . .sadly, I missed it by just a hair . . . my final time was 2 hours, 1 minute, and 44 seconds (and my sister Shawna, who supposedly wasn’t as trained as I, finished 11 seconds before me! BLAH). I would like to believe that changing a few factors that morning would have eliminated that extra 104 seconds (waking up at 4:50AM after a sleepless night on a deflated air mattress, weaving in and out of walking participants and slow runners (20,000 people on one road makes for a crowded mess) those first couple miles, stopping to pose with my kiddos along the course, a couple too many crowded water stops, and not knowing the course - I swear the last .2 miles had 12 corners to turn- where the heck was that finish line!!) but overall, I am very happy (especially to be DONE)!!

Mom and the kids drove out with me to Shawna's house in Vegas on Saturday (we wanted some sideline cheerers) and Molly flew in to Vegas on Sunday morning after our race. The weekend was fun and fairly relaxing (with exception of the Sunday morning run)!! We bowled, ate, went to the movies, played games, hobbled in pain, and napped a lot!! It was fun to see Shawn's new house and town and spend time together.

Finding Jesus . . .

2008-12-03T21:57:00.000-08:00

Happy December. . . I have been promising this post and hope it helps remind everyone what's important during this magical time of year . . . . The true meaning of Christmas finally clicked for my Cayden this year and he is constantly reminding me that his favorite part of Christmas isnt the presents but spending time with our family and celebrating Jesus!! He so gets it, and I couldnt be prouder!! This last weekend we started decorating the house and made a trip to Lowes to add something to our outdoor lighting collection. The isles were filled with singing reindeers, dancing santas, flashing trees, and giant inflatable Christmas this and Christmas that! Not interested in any of it, Cayden pulled my arm and insisted we find something with Jesus . . . We have to find Jesus mommy!! He looked and looked and came to this "lovely" 3 foot carving of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus . . . he was in awe . . . Mom, we have to get it!! This woman had been watching me and my little regilious boy and gave a little chuckle and smile as she waited to hear how I was going to get out of buying this decorative "tree trunk" (she too saw how beautiful it was).
Luckily my quick thinking was with me, and I explained that we were looking for outside decorations today, and this was clearly an inside piece (hideous I might add) that we may come back later (actually NEVER) to buy. Phew . . . the excuse worked and we left with some cute little glittery snowmen, and I didnt really give the outting a second thought.

So a few days pass and I find myself in the Christmas section of Kohls with the kids, and again, Cayden begins his quest to find Jesus! Within minutes he runs up to me and is SUPER excited with his find and pulls it from behind his back . . . can I get it mommy, pleeeease?? . . . I'll think about it honey, maybe if youre good (thats usually my answer to everything and definitely bought me some much needed time with this one). From behind his back he pulled this shiney, tacky, cheap, large . . . the right words to explain are not coming to me. . . ornament of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus! My tree is far from beautiful but I kind of have a color scheme and theme going on, and this ornament was just not going to fly. We wandered the section for a while longer, and it finally hit me. . . here my 6 year-old (wild and crazy boy) is begging for an ornament of Jesus, how can I possible deny him this (and I admit a bit fearful that we may come across a giant inflatable nativity scene, that I am unable to get out of, at the next store)?? so I give him the good news and of course he is so excited. . . SO excited that. . . . the beautiful ornament goes crashing to the ground (I was being rewarded for my clarity on the subject)!! He gives me that puppy dog face and I assure him we will find another (totally stoked knowing that there is no way we are going to find another one in this horrible mess of ornaments) Aubrey and I offer him "classier" manger scenes, but he searches and searches and finally finds his ornaments "home," and lucky for me, there are 2 left :) YEAH!! His face is cheerful again, and late for a party, we rush to the front of the store to make our final purchase. But the story doesnt end there . . . the lines are super long and as soon as I get to the front. . . . CRASH!! Ornament #2 becomes pieces on the ground. . . . sad faced, but late for the party we purchase the other items and go on our way.

So in an attempt to make a long story short . . . .yesterday we return to Kohls (knowing for sure that last ornament would still be there - who else would possible want it). . .I detoured Cayden to the bathroom and Aubrey found ornament #3, hid it in our cart . . . Cayden was sad when he saw the last one is gone. . . . I paid and we were on our way (yes, without the ornament crashing to the ground)! We got home and I really, really, really wanted to give it to him but this year I began doing the 24 days of Christmas for my kids and knew this would make an excellent present (especially following a morning of decorative tissues that were definitley not a hit on day #3) so had to wait til this morning to see his face (needless to say he LOVED it and was so surprised)!! Thanks Cayden for helping me remember what Christmas is all about :)

I am Thankful for. . .

2008-11-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

I was picking Cayden up from school a couple days ago and was looking at his class bulletin board (Located in the hall outside his class) while I waited for the bell to ring. The board was title "I am Thankful for. . . " and all the kids had written something and drawn a picture to go along with what they were thankful for. I scanned the board and came to Cayden's. His picture was a little boy with his hand out dropping brown little balls into a bucket on the ground and written below his said . . . I am thankful I am not . . . the final word had a bunch of eraser marks but it looked like Poo. I was shocked!! I suddenly started scanning the board and read what the other kids in the class were thankful for . . . mom, fluffy, daddy, my sister . . . 19 sweet 1st graders and my rotten kid was thankful he was not POO?? Why would his teacher even put that on the board? So the bell rings, he hugs his teacher on the way out, and surprised to see me (I normally dont get to pick him up from school) runs over and jumps into my arms giving me the biggest bear hug ever. I ask him to tell me about his picture (prepared to discuss the inappropriateness of it) and he reads it to me . . . I am thankful I am not POOR! I cracked up . . .it made perfect sense, those brown little balls were coins, not poo and as I looked closely there was a faint "r" in the midst of the erasing mess. I told him what I thought it had said and he couldnt stop laughing at me and basically gave me the inappropriate talk I was preparing to give him!

On this day of thanks, I am thankful for my Cayden. Last night he was watching tv and I was in the kitchen doing dishes and out of the blue (assuming it must have been commercial) he yelled at me and asked if I knew why he was the luckiest kid on the planet . . . . and his response. . . . because I have you (yep that would be me) as a mommy!! I love that kid to pieces and one day some woman is going to hate me for raising such a mommy's boy :)

On this day of thanks, I am also extremely lucky to be Aubrey's mommy. She may be transitioning into a preteen with a big attitude but she still has the biggest heart in all the world. She is quiet, polite, and thoughtful. She is a good student and a huge helper to everyone. She volunteers her lunch recess every day to help in the autism class at school. I am proud of her and the little adult she is.

Happy Thanksgiving Friends

Die Bugs, DIE!! and my AWESOME Present

2008-11-25T20:08:00.000-08:00

I came home a couple of days ago to these random little bugs traveling as a family across my kitchen floor! I'm not sure if they travel daily, and on this particular day, I came home early and interrupted this daily move, or if they were migrating from behind the trash can to the stove for the winter?? Whatever the case, I smashed that family to smithereens and decided to invest in a pack of bug bombs! So this morning I loaded my sleepy kids in the car, put the dog in the garage for the day (in his new cute sweater) and set 6 of those bombs off in my little 1000 square foot house - assuming that was plenty to get the job done! Growing up my mom was, and I suppose still is, an avid user of 'bug bombs' but I honestly don’t recall the "after-math." For anyone who knows me, I am beyond a clean freak (with dishes as my exception). I use the vacuum cleaner daily and do a good vacuum and mop job at least once a week. I have all wood floors so there are not piles of dust and goobers in the corner . . . I am CLEAN!! So we came home tonight and I was shocked to find dead bugs all over the floors - Spiders and flies and unknown creepy crawlers -I must ask, is this normal?? Has anyone used these bombs before?? Where the heck were all these bugs hiding?? Okay, so maybe there weren’t hundreds, but definitely enough to make me scared to sleep tonight!!
I was raving at work today about wanting to be the "Lizard Wizard," and travel around schools with my collection of reptiles and cool bugs, I guess I got my trial run and even though the Lizard Wizard is such a cool name, I resign!!

. . . and now my AWESOME present. . .
For my birthday last week my wonderful sisters got me that IPod thing that is compatible with Nike shoes. I was super stoked to get it but really didn’t know what it did. I already had a pair of compatible Nike shoes (AKA my Not So Amazing Shoes) and finally decided to figure it out last night so I could use it on my run today. It tracks distance, time, calories and plugs into the computer and keeps an ongoing log. Before my run today, I input the time requirement for the day and was surprised when 5 minutes into the run this little voice interupts the music and said "5 minutes completed, 55 to go," then every five minutes it gave me an update. I normally track my long runs with a car the night before but with this, I can input the number of miles I need to run and the woman will come on and tell me ever mile I reach - it is so cool, you can even change the voice that gives you updates!! I am so amazed at technology and especially LOVE my IPod and Nike companion and I highly recommend :)

My Healed Heart

2008-11-24T18:19:00.000-08:00

My heart was recently crushed, and with very little experience with this within the past couple of years, I reacted and did ALL the things they say you shouldn’t . . . bought a new car, searched for a new job, signed up to run a marathon, traveled out of state to testify against my ex-husband (k, so maybe that one isn’t typical but not sure I would have done it otherwise), I even considered moving out of state! I avoided 'that' restaurant, and 'that' park, and turn the radio off when 'that' lame song came on . . . Basically, I did anything and everything to stay distracted and keep my mind off the culprit.

So a couple of nights ago the kids and I were driving home from visiting with friends and Aubrey started to tell me about her day via Pig Latin. Her teacher this year uses it a lot in class and thus Aubrey comes home and often tries to teach us. I guess Cayden was feeling left out so he proceeded to tell me about his day by spelling each and EVERY word . . . So I am sitting in the front seat, trying to decipher what the heck my kids are saying iha M-O-T-H-E-R M-Y yma T-E-T-C-H-R ommya . . . between Caydens recent Irish accent he picked up, his new spelling abilities, and Aubrey's creative twist on pig latin, I was at a total loss and decided my best immediate option would be to crank up the Hannah Montana cd full blast and get my kids to sing instead of talk! This plan went over well and I proudly cracked up in the front seat!

For the remainder of the car ride I couldn’t help but think about my life and my progress, and at that moment, I realized my heart was healed! For months I was sad and pondered on all that gunk way too much. I never thought I would get past that horrible ache and like they say, know I am so much stronger for it. All those "typical" things I did have turned to be a blessing in my life . . . I lOVE LOVE LOVE my new car, I recently got hired at the very BEST school in town, my knew best friends are a result of that failed relationship, my ex husband was reamed in court (for those who don’t know him, it totally serves him right), and I have run my brains out in the past months and am SO ready to run my marathon! My feet may look like hell, but my heart is completely healed!! I love my kids and our crazy life, even if it's just the three of us!!

WaLa. . . Bonnie's Blogging Debut

2008-11-22T21:50:00.000-08:00

Wahoo for my 1st post!! For weeks I have signed on with every intention of creating my very own blog but quickly found the first post to be a stressful task. So instead of working on my blog, each night I get wrapped into the lives of others. . . BLOG-SNOOPING . . . I decided I LOVE to read about the lives of others (even perfect strangers) - it's kind of like watching tv and hope I can provide all my "viewers" with some sort of entertainment, even if you are merely laughing at me :)