Sunday, December 21, 2008

It's the Most Wonderful time of the Year!




This week was busy with last minute shopping errands, a wonderful Christmas party for ladies, a super-fun preschool Christmas party for Ash, a Mtn. View Christmas party for Austin which I was able to lead a few carols with the kids, the Bull-Run Festival of Lights, and to top it off tonight we saw Santa in  Piedmont once again this year on the decorated fire truck!  We love seeing these things each year.  Traditions.  Things to look forward to year after year.  That's what makes Christmas the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Santa Claus




Ashley already had a little kitchen she cooked with, but for her birthday her buddy Gavin got her the coolest Princess oven that makes little cupcakes!  And the cake cooks by cold air so you use ice!  Amazing.  We've had so much fun with it!  Thanks to Aunt Jodi, she also has kitchen apparel for all of her culinary fun!

So we went to Fair Oaks Mall to see Santa this year!  It was the whole Polar Express theme.  After waiting over an hour and 15 minutes, we saw the big man.  I felt like we were waiting in line like on the movie a Christmas Story.  Ho ho ho.  Austin requested Martian Matter and Ash requested a doll that goes potty.



Monday, December 15, 2008

Steamers



So we LOVE having a dog.  Annie is definitely a cuddler, loves to snuggle, kiss, and thinks she's a human.  That last part is causing us a bit of difficulty recently.  Yes, she thinks she ranks right up there with Ash and Austin.  Because of her smooth transition, we've spoiled her and she's starting to think she's on our level.  In dog terms, that's not good.  So, we're working with her on letting her know she's the dog and everyone else is more important than her.  I've been attending obedience classes with her and she's really taking well to it.  Although on a leash I feel like she's a horse and I'm saying 'whoa nellie' as my shoulder is about to pop out of socket as I'm struggling to pull her back, but we're working on it.  Plus, I haven't gotten used to picking up 'steamers'.  Steamers are what my family calls doggie poo.  Steamy because it comes out hot and it's cold outside...therefore, we've got a steamer.


The kids watched the movie Annie a while back when it was on ABC Family.  We love that musical.  Anyway, I told the kids that I loved them and my sweet daughter retorted back to me, "We love you Mrs. Hannigan."  

Austin is starting to 'swap' things at school.  On the bus, recess and lunch.  He takes trinkets and little toys of his and comes back with new trinkets and toys and books.  I ask him if that's what he really wants to do and that he should hold onto the stuff he has.  But he loves his new goods.  I honestly can't blame him.  I would probably like to do that too--take some of the stuff I have that I would like to get rid of...(clothes, makeup, shoes, purses) and trade them with someone else.  Anyone in?

Jonathan came back from the Panama Canal on Thurs to leave today for Palo Alto.  Adios mi amor!  At least we have him for Christmas.  I must say too, that I am a spoiled wife.  He is gone quite a bit.  Okay, a lot.  Actually, a TON.  BUT, when he is in town?  Let me key you in on my sweetheart.  He first brings me something back from everywhere he goes.  Not necessarily jewelry or something indigenous to that country, but maybe an exquisite little box of chocolates or some special body cream.  Then, he cleans the house.  Oh yes ladies, he CLEANS my house!  Maybe he's too used to what the maids do in his hotel rooms everyday and when he comes home it's not quite to par, but regardless, I don't argue.  Then he does any laundry that's in the basket along with his clothes.   I love it when he's home.  A treat, clean home, laundry done, trash out, puts the kids down and on dog duty.  What the heck am I going to do when he's gone for an entire YEAR in July?!?!?  Anyone want a job?  

Christmas is only 11 days away.  I wish it would snow.  
Feliz Navidad!
Angie





Sunday, December 07, 2008

Ashley's Birthday





Birthday girl is now 3.  I cannot believe she's 3.  We had a great day of Cracker Barrel and Cold Stone.  She also celebrated with some of her little buddies at her Princess Party.  I think she really thinks she's Cinderella.  My mom and I even made her a Princess cake!  


I can't believe how time is flying.  My kids are now 6 and 3!  My sister in law Jodi told me to enjoy the kids now, and that even though some days seem sooooo long with having busy youngsters around, that "the days are long, but the years are even shorter".  So I'm trying to remember that when I have my long days with my kids....the days are long, but the years are even shorter.  Sniff sniff.  Quit growing up!


Monday, December 01, 2008

Boobie fixation




I turned around and what to my wandering eyes did appear?   Ash found a better place for her play microphone than on her mouth!

Caged



I found it was easier to keep the dog out and the kids in.  Why didn't I get a crate sooner?