Their Bags Are Packed...

...and they are READY TO GO!!! They have been sitting clutching their backpacks all morning. "Eh-plane, Mommy, eh-plane? Eh go Mommy, eh go!".

We're just about ready to hit the road for our family reunion in Denver. This is my Dad's side of the family. He only has 2 sisters, but 1 has 11 kids and the other has 5. So it's a HUGE group, and always a blast.

This is 2 years ago at the last reunion. Chris & I are on the back row - I'm holding baby Masey, and my Daddy is right next to me. My Mom is the first one sitting down in a chair, holding a weepy Maya (she puked the entire trip last time - fun, fun!) and my brother Chris, his wife Tara & their 2 boys Daniel & Ben are the first ones sitting on the ground. (My younger brother didn't go...) This is only most of the family....there are at least 10-15 others not pictured. I don't even know how many great-grandkids there are in the family...quick calculation tells me there are at least 25. So my kids will LOVE it...all of the craziness, the running around, and especially, rolling down the hill at Grandma & Grandpa's...

I may be bloggin' from the road, so check back! Either way, have a great weekend. I'll be back next week.

What Do I Owe Ya?

I am Forgetful Jones. I didn't used to be - my mind used to be pretty darn sharp. But not anymore!

For example, I woke up early this morning suddenly remembering an incident from a few weeks ago. I went to Target with my Mama, loaded up my cart, went to pay...and had no wallet. My kind Mom handed over her debit card. I promised to write her a check as soon as I got home...and promptly forgot all about it. I hate it when I do stuff like that! I'm not trying to get her to buy my stuff. I have every intention of paying her. I'm just so forgetful! And she'll never bring it up - in fact, she probably forgot all about it. And of course, I have no idea how much I even owe her (forgot). So Mom! What do I owe ya? I'll have my accountant cut you a check.

I've also been really forgetful about thank-you cards lately. I'm usually the queen of the thank-you. Recently, I've been making lists and then losing them and then finding them again, but by then I've forgotten what that list of names even means. But I do know for sure I owe a thank-you to:

• My friend Natalie, who sent me a surprise package in the mail a few weeks ago. Just thinking of me, thought I might enjoy her last month's book club book, so she popped it in the mail with the cutest card. How thoughtful, right? And I think about it all day - I've got to drop Nat a note to let her know how much I appreciated that. Then I forget. Again, and again.
• The fabulous Jori, who sent me a "cheer up" iTunes card which I put to fantastic use adding to my Hem collection.
• My adorable friend Tasha & her hubby, who took us out for an outrageously expensive meal a few weeks ago.
• The always generous Tib, who sent me one of her "Quit Complaining" bracelets (which I've forgotten to wear so far - note to self...).
  
• My BFF Jennifer who sent a Target gift card "for the baby" when I first found out I was pregnant (I spent it on myself, naturally).
  
• My parents, for millions of things including taking care of our kids while we went on our cruise, not to mention countless other meals and babysitting and this-and-that out our ears. I could write them a thank you note every day and never be caught up.
• Oh, there are others, I'm sure of it. People who are so kind and generous and I'm so grateful for them and want them to know it - but guess what? I forgot to send a note.

I hope people know I'm not ungrateful - I am, I really am so, so grateful. And I really do have the best intentions, really I do. So we've got to add thank-you notes to the "getting my act together" list.

And if I owe you something (money? a phone call? a favor?) now's the time to let me know. I'm making a list. And I will really try not to lose it.

{What about you? Who do you owe?}

Talk To Me About The Bella Band...

Anybody have a Bella Band? Like it? Hate it? Recommend it? Never heard of it? That was the boat I was in until my friend Kristen filled me in. Apparently it's a band of fabric that will hold up your unfastened pants and simply looks like you're wearing a tee under your shirt. I'm thinking it sounds pretty cool, but wanted some more input...

Thoughts?

Did Someone Say...

...White Chocolate Raspberry Krispie Deep Dish Pizza???

Mercy, mercy me. Get the recipe here.

Materni-Tees

I'm not really one, pregnant or otherwise, to sport a wry t-shirt. But these from 2 Chix are pretty darn cute.

"We're hungry." My motto.

"You had me at epidural." Amen.

"With bump, not plump." And amen again!

Check 'em all out here.

Gradual Milestone...

I just noticed last night that Maya was sleeping with just her lava lamp on. No closet light. No bathroom or hall light. Just the lava lamp!

This has been a long time coming. She went through a phase in the last six months or so where she had to have every light in the house on at bedtime. At first, she'd just fall asleep with her bedside lamp on, and I'd sneak in and turn it off before I went to bed. But then that resulted in tearful 2am wake-up calls: "Who turned off my lamp {sob sob}?". Then she wouldn't sleep without her overhead light on. Finally, I put my foot down. No lamp, no room light. She could do her closet, the hall and the bathroom lights if she needed to. Tears, tears, but as usual, if you're firm with Maya, she'll cope. At first she had her lava lamp {Chris idea of a nightlight}, closet, bathroom and hall light on every night. But gradually, she's given each them up {except the lava lamp, and we're cool with that}. And now she's sleeping in the {mostly} dark, just like a normal kid. Phew!

My smart friend Jenny told me once that with kids, life is like a series of 3 month phases. I've thought about that many times. In the midst of whatever struggle you're currently going through with your kids, it seems like it will last forever. Will Maya's bowels ever work right? Will Mason ever eat another vegetable? Will Maya be sleeping with the lights on when she's a teenager? Will Mason be married carrying his blanket? Well, yes, yes, no and probably!

At least that's how it seems this week...

The Broken Plate

I've been eyeballing several items over at the Broken Plate for a while now. First of all, I love the concept! She fashions pieces of broken plates into amazing jewelry of all kinds - rings, necklaces, etc. etc. She'll even make custom items from a piece of your Grandmother's china, something of sentimental value, or just something pretty you found.

Right now I've got my eye on these huge necklaces. The pendants are over 4 inches long! So cool, a very dramatic look. I love both designs, but unfortunately, my jewelry budget is pretty dry right now so I'll just have to keep waiting and wishing.

In the mean time, do check out all of the pretty stuff at the Broken Plate.

{Via Cammie, a long time ago...}

Making Me Laugh Today...

I saw this on Mindi's blog today and it had me rollin' on the floor. Too funny! True enough, I have perhaps spent some time at ten on the exuberance scale. Lately, it's been more like a three. I'd definitely love to get it up around seven here again someday.

I should admit, I actually really do love Giada! I guess that's why I find that so darn amusing.

Art of Andrew Daniel

Muchos gracias to Sharla for turning me on to the Art of Andrew Daniel. I am obsessed and in love with this print. I wish I could spring for the $300 canvas print...however, I think the $60 print will have to do the job. I already know exactly where I want to hang it...

Check out his other amazing work here.

Getting Our Crap Together (Sort Of): The Weekend Wrap Up

Oooh boy. I'm not a great housekeeper. I don't try to hide that. But mercy me. The state of this house prior to this weekend was ridiculous. Shameful. Disgraceful. Lucky us, we had a 3-day weekend to work it over a bit...

Friday night we met Chris at Target just to pick up a few things and show him a shelf I was thinking might be good for Maya's room. A while later, we left with the shelf, a million dollars worth of pink-lined white wicker baskets (and the resolve to get her room whipped into shape), as well as Masey's new bedding set. Dinner was leftover hot dogs (for the kids) and pizza for Chris & I. We got the kids in bed, and then instead of starting to tackle this disaster area, went to bed with good intentions of work work working on Saturday...

And work we did! Saturday morning we tried to clear the crud out of our room. I removed a gigantic stack of books from my nightstand - books I have every intention of reading but never do - along with my shameful stash of snacks! Then Chris moved on to the kitchen while I started in on the play room. We did some reorganizing, got rid of some things, boxed up the "baby toys", etc. It looked no better (worse, actually) when I left for play rehearsal at Noon.

Chris took the kids out for lunch (and dropped by rehearsal with some popcorn shrimp - yum!) and then he and Maya took on her room while Masey napped. I had lots o' copying to do at rehearsal. Then I got to read-in for Mary (who was sick). I will admit, I got a little choked up reading the lines as Mary spoke about the life of her son, Jesus. It is such a great play! We wrapped up around 4pm and I headed home to check the progress. Maya's room was rearranged and looking good! But her closet was still a disaster...a project for another day (today, in fact). We ran out to try and find a laundry hamper for Maya's room. The best one we found was $40 - which seems pretty outrageous to me, so the search continues. I did find an ottoman that I love at World Market, but I'm still undecided. Home again, and I had to lay down for a while (Curse this pregnancy, seriously. I've been trying to be positive. Trying not to complain too much. But seriously. I'm so sick of being sick.). Chris fed the kids dinner, then took off for his indoor soccer game. I had some quality time with my babies, tubby time, etc. I hung out with Maya in her bed for a while, admiring the new set-up and at Maya's request "chat(ting) about stuff". Chris came home with a bruised heel (and a great story about the goal he scored for the opposing team - go Chris!) and we headed to bed.

Sunday, we took a break from cleaning up the mess. Chris let me sleep in for a bit, then he had a couple of meetings to be at before church, so I got myself and the kids ready, finished up my nursery lesson, repacked the church bag and off we went. We had a great time in nursery - listening to animal sounds, watching President Monson wiggle his ears and making "I am grateful for my ears" headbands, complete with gigantic ears. They turned out very cute. Home again where I tried to not overeat before dinner or fall asleep, but managed to do both anyway. Not to worry, I still ate plenty o' brisket + cherry pie at dinner at my parents' house. Back home I worked on some projects on the computer. We got the kids in bed and then watched "The Kite Runner". Okay, Chris watched it. I have no attention span for most movies. When I saw it was over 2 hours long, I figured I wouldn't make it through. Then when I saw I'd be reading subtitles, I threw in the towel and read blogs and magazines instead. Chris loved it, though. In to bed late (thanks to that 2+ hour movie!) :).

And I love bonus weekend days! We got up and right back to work this morning. We moved a shelf into the playroom and filled it with books to free up some room on the toy shelf. We got more ruthless with the throwing out. Then we hit the road for more big boy bed shopping. It was...frustrating. We could have bought 10 girls' beds, but didn't find one boy bed we liked. We went to half a million stores. I was reminded again why I hate furniture shopping. Finally, we gave up and stopped at Fuddruckers for burgers and shakes, then headed for home. Masey and I had naps while Chris & Maya went back to work on her closet. I got up and went to meet my Mama for pedicures...but there was quite a long wait, so I settled for an eyebrow wax and called it good. Back home and we hit the stores again. Actually, just one store, Pier One, to pick up the cabinet I've been wanting. It will be perfect in the now empty space in the hall (from the shelf that went into the playroom) and better yet, it was marked down $75 bucks! So I was thrilled with that! We stopped by the pizza buffet on the way home, then it was tubby time. I spent a little extra time with Maya. She woke up on the wrong side of the bed today and pretty much had a stick up her behind all day long. She spent plenty o' time in time out today due to her sassy mouth. So I wanted to give her a little extra attention, and we had a good talk. Then bed time, followed by lots and lots and lots of online shopping for big boy beds. I'm not sure we're going to find what we're looking for except in the "outrageous" price point - I'm getting a little discouraged. Luckily, we have months before it will become a real issue.

Are you still reading this? Mercy me. You deserve a trophy. How about a couple of follow-up questions, then. Did you notice me folding laundry anywhere in this extensive wrap up? Do you think I will ever fold the laundry? What about meals? Did I cook any? Will I ever cook again? Did we eat pretty healthy this weekend? How many naps can one person take in one weekend? How much pizza can one person eat? Do you think I'm lazy? Slothful? And boring besides?

And that's why it's only sort of getting our crap together - we've got a long way to go. My goal for this week? Go to the grocery store! Cook healthy meals for my family! Fold the laundry! And I've only got 2 days to do it. We leave Thursday for a family reunion in Colorado...

Hope you ate healthy this weekend! :) Have a great week.

High-Ho Silver's!

Craving confession: I cannot get enough of Long John Silver's popcorn shrimp. I'm not sure which I love more: the shrimp or the cocktail sauce. Mmm mmm mmm. Those shrimp are so delicious, I just know I'll have a heart attack before I'm able to give birth - because if it tastes that good, it has to be absolutely terrible for you, I'm sure of it! And yet, I've eaten no fewer than 3 boxes of that deliciousness today, and made 3 trips there in the last 2 days. My oh my, the calories.

I don't even want to know...

A Card Carrying Member

I finally took Maya to get a library card a couple of weeks ago! Yahoo! She was thrilled, thrilled to have her very own card. I convinced her to browse in "the boring section", and she picked up some books on horses, butterflies and kitty cats. I have to say, it makes me feel so very happy to see my girl so excited about books!

For Masey's Big Boy Bed

I stopped by Target today to pick up a new contact lens case {so as not to reinfect my eyeballs when at last, I get to put contacts back in tomorrow!} and came out with bedding for Masey's big boy bed! True enough, he doesn't have a big boy bed yet...but he needs one. And I loved it, and better yet, so did he!

This photo doesn't do the quilt justice. The colors are much deeper in person. It has patches of fishies and surf boards and leaves and the manliest hibiscus flowers ever! Of course, now I want to get a real surf board for the room. Oh, and the color scheme will require repainting (Sorry, Chris). I opted for a navy blue bed skirt rather than the grass skirt bed skirt. Because while it's a cute idea in theory, in reality it's sort of...weird. {Apologies if you have a grass skirt bed skirt, of course.}

I also got a couple sets of the fishy sheets to complete the package. As soon as we got home, Mason was unloading it all, ready to put it on his big boy bed! Um, did I mention we don't have a big boy bed yet? He was satisfied with me setting it up on the floor {he even demonstrated it for us, complete with snoring sounds!} but was pretty devastated when he didn't get to sleep in it. But as usual, he was easily pacified {his terrible 2's are a treat compared to Maya's, I tell you!} by being allowed to take the pillow to bed.

Sniffity sniff sniff, my baby boy is getting so grown up. We're off to {hopefully!} find a big boy bed for Masey tomorrow!

It's Finished!

I've been working on June's play rehearsal schedule for an outrageous number of hours now. And I just hit "send". And it's gone. Glory, glory! Now, I'm just waiting to hear back from someone pointing out the totally obvious mistake(s) that I just know are there. Because, ACK! That's just how it goes, no matter how much I look it over and look it over and look it over. But oh well. At least it's finally done.

Now. I've got one quick "farewell open house" invitation to whip and up and then I'm officially saying goodbye to my computer...possibly forever.

Yeah right.

Diaper Cake

A friend of mine made me a diaper cake for my baby shower when I was pregnant with Maya. Ever since then, I've wanted to make one. I still don't have an occasion to, but at least now I have the know-how! Check out a great diaper-cake tutorial here.

{Via...some blog I read. Ack, I can't remember! I'll link it when it dawns on me.}

It's Official!

Maya has graduated from co-op preschool. {Better yet, so have I!} She's off to Bethany Lutheran for M/T/Th preschool next year, yahoo! Would you believe she danced around and shouted "YES! I'm out of school! School's out, school's out, school's out!" Mercy me.

And here they are, the fabulous 4. {Wyatt couldn't stay for the festivities...} McKenna, Maya, Chloe & Addison. Notice what an absolute giant Maya is! Holy mackerel! They are a good looking bunch, no?

{Maya's dress is from here. I'm absolutely in love with it.}

Curly-Mops Make Her Heart Flutter

Maya {you know, my 4 year old daughter} has declared that she will "fall in love with a curly-haired boy and marry him". Currently tops on her list?

Josh Groban...

And that curly haired Jonas brother.

So how the heck does she even know who these boys are? Right, I make her watch Ellen with me every day! :)

All I can say is, heaven help us when she's a teen-ager. Especially with the boy crazy genes she comes from. We're in for it.

Just Doing Their Job

Today as I was cleaning the kitchen {Gasp! I know!} the kids were on their usual loud and rowdy behavior. Doing somersaults. Hooting. hollering. Laughing their guts out. The norm. You know, being kids. Having fun.

And for some reason, I looked over at them, all ready to bark "Knock it off!" at them. Because, you know, they were, like...having fun?! I guess?

What's the deal? Why would I want to stop their fun? They weren't bothering anyone. Well, they were bothering me, but why? I want my kids to have fun, and play together, and enjoy life and be happy. They weren't being naughty. They weren't fighting. They were playing, for crying out loud. Seriously, why would I want to stop that?

Luckily, I stopped myself from spoiling their fun. I reminded myself that they're kids. Having fun is like, pretty much their job. I'm so happy they like each other. I'm so glad they find pleasure in simple things. I'm thrilled that they play together and giggle and hoot together and get silly and crazy together. I'm grateful to live in a home filled with joy and laughter. Here's hoping some of that joy rubs off on this cranky lady, geesh.

Look at those faces...dirty faces, laughing faces. {SpongeBob pajamas outside...nice.} I really do love it.

Teacher Gifts

The ladies I co-op with deserve a medal and/or a million dollars for putting up with my daughter on a weekly basis...free of charge. I don't suppose this fully covers the extent of my gratitude, but I did want to get them a lil' something to say thanks.

So I picked up some cute drink dispensers at Target, added some Country Time Pink Lemonade mix and a tag, and voila! Teacher gifts. This is my first time at this (and these are my friends, not "real" teachers, although they do ROCK!), so hopefully this is an acceptable offering...

Like my play on words? "Pink" for pink lemonade? "Time" because it's Country Time? It didn't work, did it? Ah well.

More Fauxternity...

I was just bragging to my Mama that I've made it to almost 17 weeks without wearing maternity clothes yet! I guess it's not a huge accomplishment, especially given the amount of fauxternity tops I've been sporting. Here's the latest top I'm drooling over - ooh, lala! I actually gasped out loud when I spotted it. Very Natalie-style.

I love this one, too.

...and this one.

But I'll probably only get one. Maybe. I'm leaning toward the first one.

Care to vote?

Preschoolers Gift

Tomorrow marks the end of co-op preschool (Insert fist-pumping here! Lesson learned. I'm SO not cut out for that!), and I wanted to send the kids off with a little gift. I decided on "My Book About Me" by Dr. Seuss. I had this book when I was a kid and LOVED it! It's full of fill-in-the-blanks about favorite things, vital stats, etc. I think it will be a fun project + keepsake in one. I can't wait to work on Maya's with her...

I'll Send an SOS to the World

I'm in love with this print, titled "A Message in a Bottle". Makes me want to write down all my innermost thoughts, bottle them up and toss them into the ocean...

Get it here.

{Via EmilyStyle.}

Tagged! Five Things...

I am the worst about following through on tags, and I haven't done one in forever. But my friend Natalie tagged me on this one, which I thought was pretty fun, so here we go:

Ten years ago:
1. I had just gotten married to Chris at age 20. (Ack! Baby!)
2. I had decided to wait until Chris was finished with school before I went back. (I changed my mind and went back the next year.)
3. I chopped all of my hair off David Bowie style and bleached it blond after being inspired by the girl in the Joey McIntyre come-back video. Yes, really! I should dig out a picture. It was really something.
4. I was sad when all of the girls I visit-taught were called as the new Relief Society presidency and I wasn't. (Oh, how I've changed my tune.)
5 I worked taking phone orders for a wood-turning supply company. "Craft Supplies, this is Natalie." It was a crappy job, but I usually enjoy everything I do, and this was no exception. We made it fun.

Five things on today's to-do list
1. Errands, errands, errands. Tomorrow, preschool graduation is at my house. Have I planned a single thing? No. Bought anything? No. Agh.
2. Dishes, dishes, dishes. There are disgusting things lurking in the sink. I've been putting it off. (Surprise, surprise.)
3. Fold a mountain of laundry.
4. Work on a whole bunch of play stuff - scheduling for June.
5. Clean the extra bathroom - we'll be having guests here tomorrow, after all...

Five snacks I enjoy, in no particular order:
1. Popcorn, just a little burned. I sift through to find all of the darkest pieces. Mmm.
2. Whole Foods Mint Brownies
3. Candied nuts. Almonds and pecans are my favorite, but they have to be fresh. None of the canned variety. Whole Foods has a great roasting stand.
4. Salt & vinegar potato chips. Lays has a variety I love...kettle roasted or something.
5. Bananas

Five things I'd do if I suddenly became a billionaire:
1. Pay it all off - for everyone in my family
2. Find (& buy) the house I really love
3. Travel, travel, travel
4. Invest wisely enough that Chris could start his own business and work remotely from wherever (vacation!)
5. Save what we need and give lots away

Five of my bad habits:
1. Wasting money on stupid things.
2. Neglecting the housework.
3. Not folding the laundry.
4. Letting trash pile up in my car. (Geez, I'm a pig!!!)
5. Eating too much junk food.

Five places I've lived:
1. Nashville, TN
2. Colorado Springs, CO
3. Las Vegas, NV
4. Salt Lake City, UT
5. Austin, TX

Five JOBS I have had:
1. Sales clerk @ American Eagle Outfitters
2. Waitress @ the Olive Garden
3. Receptionist @ an ad agency
4. Marketing Coordinator (twice)
5. Event planner for an Auto Auction in Vegas (those were some wild parties, baby!)

Five Things People Don't Know About Me:
1. I can walk from my bed to the bathroom with my eyes closed. I do it several times a night.
2. I am completely EVIL in the morning.
3. I cannot go to bed without flossing and doing 2 minutes on the Sonicare, as well as washing and moisturizing my face. I've skipped flossing a few times, but I always brush teeth and wash face.
4. I almost never answer my phone. Home or cell. (I guess if you've ever tried to call me, you DO know this. Or now feel really special, if I happened to answer...)
5. I refuse to touch my own feet. I go in for pedicures, but never put lotion on in between or touch up the chips in the polish. Feet are nasty. Even my own. I don't want to touch them.

Anybody want to play? Tag, you're it!

Just So I Don't Forget...

At age 2 years and 3 months, Mason has 2 favorite shows:

"Ah-Dee-Den"

He's most partial to "Eureka" (Uniqua), but also loves "Blah Blah" (Pablo), "Sasha" (Tasha), "Tah Ten" (Austin) and "Ty Wone" (Tyrone).

And his next favorite? "Dee Dee Dee".

And I know he won't say it that way forever...and I don't want to forget.

Berry Sorbet Dress

I so want to buy this dress for Maya! I'm loving that bright, funky fabric. Available on Etsy, naturally.

I also want to find that exact road for some photo op's! Talk about picturesque. The canopy o' trees? To die for!

Blessing Dress

My talented mother-in-law made a blessing dress for Miss Maya, and if this babe is a girl, I'm sure she'll do the same for her. {Or maybe she'd wear Maya's...hmm, I'm not sure.} So I have no need for this gorgeous Irish Blessing embroidered dress. {Which is good, because it's sold out.} But I just like looking at it. How gorgeous, right?

Inspire Company always has amazing, one of a kind things, if you're ever in the mood to browse pretty, pretty stuff.

Mmm. Brownies.

I've been dying for brownies ever since I read this post over at Annie's Eats. Oh my gravy. She says Ina Garten's Outrageous Brownies are the best out there. And I do love Ina. And Annie. So I think I'll take her word for it. Get the recipe here.

Here's hoping I have all the ingredients in my pantry...I'm drooling right now.

Indecision

Holly alerted me to the fact that the dishes I've been coveting are on sale for 50 percent off. Half off, people! This was on Friday. And I've been tormented by my indecision ever since then. Do I really want to spend the money? Because even at half price, it's more than this cheap Mama of small children really wants to spend on highly breakable dishes. Still, we did just celebrate our 10 year anniversary and if not for Target clearance dishes and Ikea specials, we'd still be eating off the dishes we got when we got married. And I do love them. Plus, sale ends soon. Ack.

Somebody tell me what to do.

Pinwheel Cookies

I think I'll make Plum Pudding's pinwheel cookies with the preschool kids tomorrow. How cute are they? Groovy, baby! I love the idea of putting a lollipop stick in them while they're still warm for a super cute sucker-style cookie. Find out how here.

{Via the Crafty Crow.}

Birth Tee

I will definitely need to get one of the birth announcement onesies made for our new babe. How cute is that? And it's like a cheat sheet for Mom! I imagine that by #3, I'll have a hard time remembering all those vital stats. {This old brain ain't what it used to be...}

Culpepper General also has a cute selection of "monthly onesies" (for those monthly photos - you know, the ones I didn't take with Mason...oops) and other personalized designs, as well. Super adorable stuff! And a great gift idea...

{Via My Mom Shops.}

Infected: The Weekend Wrap-Up

Eww, gross. Check me out - I am infected! Not only do I have a massive cold sore (that I'm trying to infect Maya with, apparently, poor child) - my first in years, knock on wood - but my ooey gooey infected eyeballs mean I have to wear my crooked glasses for a week and throw out my mascara. Bah! Nevertheless, we persevered and had ourselves quite a weekend.

Friday night started out with dinner at Donn's Texas Barbecue, at Maya's request. Ooh, baby! Few things are as delicious as Donn's brisket with sides of baked beans and potato salad. Yum yum! Then home for tubby time for Mason, who will not skip his bath, even when he doesn't really need one. He also wildly protests getting out no matter how long you let him stay in. Kids in bed and Chris and I heated up some peanut butter & chocolate chip break n' bake cookies. Mmm. Maya sniffed them out and joined us in our room, where she hijacked the television (but not the cookies) and watched American Gladiators ("the race", she calls it...) with Chris while I caught up on blog reading and e-mail.

Saturday, I was up and out to play rehearsal. Copying, running around, and preparing a delicious hot dog lunch for the cast were on my agenda. Meanwhile, Chris mowed the lawn while the kids ran around outside. Next, he took the kids for pony rides and carnival-style rides, along with some miniature golf. Is he a fun Dad, or what?! Maya adored her pony ride - Mason wouldn't have any of it! Then home for Masey's nap and Maya swam in the kiddie pool while Chris finished up yard work. I got home around 3 and the 3 of us hung out until Masey got up at 4.

Next up? Big boy bed shopping! What?! I know, I know. Masey is growing up! But we struck out at a couple of stores and then gave up. We swung by Little Caesars for some hot n' ready pepperoni (my favorite!) headed for home. I ate my share on the ride home, which turned out to be a bad idea. I was feeling pretty yuck and (surprise!) fell asleep while Chris fed the kids. (Is it just me or does this happen every Saturday?) I did wake up for the kids' bed time, at least. Chris and I spent the evening catching up on TV, chit chatting, eating (of course - burned popcorn, my evening staple) and shooing Maya back to her room. ("'The race' isn't even on, Maya!")

Sunday, Sunday. I stayed in bed most of the morning, read to Mason and played Starfall games with Maya. Mason took the world's longest bath, until his water was freezing and he was utterly prune-y. I tried to convince Maya to take her tights off because the tights/sandals combo was ruining the outfit for me (she looked so cute in her Mexican dress!). Then I tried to bribe her. Then I demanded she take them off. Then I removed them myself while she protested loudly. (I'm usually cool with her wearing pretty much whatever, but I have to draw the line somewhere. Apparently tights with sandals is the line.) In true Maya fashion, she recovered quickly. Off to church for a little spiritual food and some time with the nursery kids. Fun, fun! Home for a quick nap for Masey, then off to my parents' for some rather delicious grilled steaks and homemade cheesecake. My oh my!

Then home again to drop off Chris & the kiddos, and I ran out to choir rehearsal for the play, followed by a play meeting, followed by sending a slew of play-related e-mails. And now. I'm going to bed!

Hope your weekend was happy! And happiest of new weeks to you!

Maya's Ode To Vida

Maya had a birthday party for her fish Vida last week. Yes, the fish she got a few short months ago is now 4 1/2! (Just like Maya!) There were gifts (pictures of fish Maya colored, mostly), pretend tea and cake, and lots of stuffed guests. Of course, the song was the best part. The stellar lyrics, the unbridled enthusiasm, the keyboard accompaniment...this is a song that, in all likelihood, only a mother (or grandparent) will get a kick out of...but feel free to tune in anyway!

Beaming With Pride

It must rock being a "second child". {Wait. I'm a second child. And it definitely does rock.} Number one gets all the high expectations, all the anxiety, all the trial and error. Number two {at least in my house} gets praised for every little thing he does. {To be fair, so does number one. We're all over positive reinforcement.}

Anyway, it's funny how delighted I am to watch Mason grow up. Today, for instance, was his first dentist appointment. When I took Maya for the first time, I was riddled with anxiety. What's going to happen? How will she react? How will I react? How will everyone else react? With Mason, I've been there, done that. He's been there, done that, too, watching his sister. And in true Mason fashion, he was beyond thrilled to be doing what he's seen his big sister do. He did great! His eyes got so big when the chair started to go up and back. He said "AHHH" with the best of 'em. And when he sat back up {with NO CAVITIES, mind you!} he had that look he gets. When he's pleased as can be but is trying not to look too pleased {It's a similar look to his "time out" look. Trying to look sad and sorry while in fact, he wants to laugh.} Of course, I was beaming with pride the whole time. He picked out a toy airplane from the treasure chest and we were on our way. He's been carrying his new toothbrush around all afternoon. He's beaming. And I'm beaming. What a big boy!

Mason's hit another stage we've already passed through with Maya - rain boots. Rain boots all the time. With shorts. With just a diaper. To the grocery store. To church. Get your shoes on, Masey. "Boots!" It's always got to be boots. I found the boots sort of embarrassing with Maya. I'd always explain them to everyone. Now, I don't care. With either of them. Want to wear boots? Fine. Dress up costumes? Sure. Mismatched outfits? Couldn't care less. I always thought I'd be one of those parents who wouldn't let their kids leave the house looking raggety. But no. Rag it up. I don't care. Wear what makes you happy. I won't cringe. In fact, I'll probably think it's adorable. I might even take a photo. And blog about it.

You Asked...

Where I got my pink shirt. That would be Kohl's, baby! You can only get blue or white online, but check in stores for the pink. And only $20 bucks! It's a great fauxternity shirt, if you're in the market for such a thing...(great otherwise, too).

Someone also asked about the tan & black embroidered shirt in one of the cruise pics. That one is from Forever 21...last year. Which reminds me, I've got to get my biscuit up there. They always do me right in the summer shirts department, and fauxternity is their specialty...

Now, a question for you: has anyone seen this dress in person?

Tried it on, perhaps? I looooove the crazy/funky material, but it looks rather short. The skirt and the sleeve both, actually. And I don't need both my chubby knees AND flabby upper arms exposed. Plus, maybe not do-able for the expanding belly? But it's soooo cute! Thoughts from those with in-person access?

10 Years

It is hard to believe that Chris & I celebrate our 10 year anniversary today. I have to say, being married to Chris is one of the biggest blessings I have. I got lucky when he agreed to take me on! :) And in honor of 10 years of marriage...here are 10 things I love about Chris:

1. He is a patient, patient man. {Hello, he's married to me!}
2. He's an amazing Daddy who adores his kids...and they adore him right back.
3. He has big, big, BIG dreams, plans and goals.
4. He's the hardest working and most reliable person I know. If he says something will be taken care of, it will be taken care of, no question.
   
5. He doesn't mind pitching in with cooking, cleaning, etc. (Thank goodness.)
6. He has a hilarious sense of humor - and he gets mine!
7. He's "pure in heart", always seeing the best in people, always giving the benefit of the doubt.
8. He's friendly, and a great talker. (I love that I don't have to babysit him at parties - he can take care of himself!)
9. He can eat more than anyone I know - and takes great pride in it.
   
10. He loves and is enthusiastic about a million things - but he always puts his family first.

And, for my own interest's sake, how about a 10 year timeline?

• May 15, 1998 - Married in the Salt Lake Temple
• May, 1998 - Moved from Reno, NV to Provo, UT. Chris worked for ServPro cleaning carpets and attended UVSC; Natalie worked for Craft Supplies, USA as a phone order taker.
  
• August, 1999 - Moved from Provo, UT to Salt Lake City (Trolley Square area). Chris worked for the Spaghetti Factory and studied Accounting at the University of Utah; Natalie worked at the Olive Garden and studied Public Relations at the University of Utah.
• May, 2000 - Chris started an accounting internship for Sandy City; Natalie went to work for Alan Frank & Associates as the receptionist. Both continued school.
• September, 2000 - Moved from the Trolley Square area to a basement one block east of Emigration Market; began a love affair with Emigration Market weekend BBQ's.
• Sometime after that - Chris finished up at Sandy City and began an internship at SmartTalk.
  
• December 2001 - Chris finished school; Natalie, after taking 24 credits for 3 straight semesters (including summer) almost finished school. And we up and moved to Las Vegas.
• December 2001 - Lived with Natalie's parents while our first house was being built in Vegas. Chris worked as an accountant for Lake Mead hospital; Natalie was a marketing coordinator/event planner for Greater Nevada Auto Auction.
• May 2002 - Returned to Utah for our college graduation! Chris in Accounting, Natalie in Communications: Public Relations.
• October 2002 - Moved into our first home! Natalie quit working at GNAA to focus on baby making (which hadn't been going well up to that point).
• December 2002 - Natalie takes a part time marketing job with Clark & Sullivan constructors.
• Sometime around there - Chris is promoted to Senior Accountant at Lake Mead Hospital.
• January 2003 - Success! Baby #1 is conceived.
• October 6, 2003 - Maya Grace Cottam is born.
• March, 2004 - Chris takes a job as the Assistant Controller of Spring Valley Hospital.
• October, 2004 - We get the wild idea - let's move to Austin, Texas!
• December, 2004 - Chris takes a job as the controller of SmartPrice.
• February, 2005 - We buy our second (and current) home.
  
• May, 2005 - Bun #2 in the oven.
• Sometime around there - SmartPrice becomes 360 Partners, and Chris stays on board.
• November 26, 2005 - Chris turns the big 3-0 and is a real grown up now!
  
• February 8, 2006 - Mason Andrew Cottam joins the family.
  
• All along the way....kids keep growing...we keep busy. And go on vacation as much as possible.
• November 8, 2007 - Natalie hits 30!
• February, 2008 - Baby #3 on the way!
• May 15, 2008 - 10 years of marriage, baby!

And that about sums it up! We've come along way from the 22 and 20 year old kids we were back in 1998!

Happy 10th, Chris! I love love love you and am so very grateful for you! Can't wait to see what the future holds...