Well Done, Grandpa, Well Done

On Tuesday December 15th my family lost a beloved Grandfather. It was the first time I have had to deal with the death of a Grandparent; I felt so thankful for my faith. My Grandpa was a Hero in his own right; successful business man, loving father and devoted husband. As I reflected on his life, I realized that he and my dear Grandma enjoyed a great American Romance, one that only grew stronger through the test of time. I hope and pray that Kelly and I will have that level of love and devotion well into our twilight years. My Grandpa made me laugh, his quick wit and jovial personality made him an instant favorite among many. He was strong both physically and spiritually. He was smart, savvy, classy and had an eye for style. Most of all though, he knew how to love. He knew how to express love and made me feel like I was so much better than I am. He knew how to connect with children and loved having them near him. He expressed to them how great, smart, pretty and handsome they were each time we were around him. He loved babies and even though it was painful for him to walk, he was always the first one in my hospital room to welcome our newest addition. I will miss his loving support and kind words immensely. Thankfully, I know I will see him again! I know he is reunited with loved ones and is patiently waiting for all of us here on earth. He lived a wonderfully full life, committed to faith and family, and enjoyed the success that comes from a life well lived- a job well done. I love you Grandpa, thank you for loving me and for teaching me some of life's greatest lessons. Your legacy lives on, my everyday Hero.

3 Times the Charm!

This now 3 year old has worked a boyish charm spell in our home. We love him. He brightens my day, I love being the recipient of his attention and adore seeing the world through his eyes. On his birthday I had the pleasure of spending the entire day with him "Just Mommy and Max, Not ZeZe (Lizzy), Not Ro Ro (Rosie), Not Daddy (Daddy)......no". What fun it was to follow him around the children's museum and play, Max style. He proved to be a great date, giving me lots of hand squeezes and an occasional kiss or five.

At 3, Max has developed a uniform of sorts (any kind of "hoop ball" or sports outfit, the top picture is his most favorite), enjoys playing outside (even when freezing cold) and loves to sing and play his drums (a "gift" from a cousin and Aunt/Uncle.....hmmmmmm.....). Happy Birthday to Max, our little boy, our charmer.

PS- I know, I know, it's been awhile (to say the least) but, I promise to catch this neglected blogg up........sooner than later........I hope!

Tricks and Treats

The Next Generation of serious Trick-or Treaters.

Two witches, one black cat, one skeleton (taking the picture) and a scary spider=
Classic Halloween 2009

As our children grow, new traditions emerge. This year Rosie had to walk in the school parade with Elizabeth because every witch needs her black cat......right Mommy?

My Mother's Family has some pretty fun holiday traditions. One that we all look forward to is the Annual Pumpkin Carving Party. Complete with carol singing to the light of glowing jack-o-lanterns, I look forward to it every year. It wouldn't be Halloween without it. After some lenghty discussion with my dear husband, we decided that we also needed some fun traditions of our own. We decided upon a few things:

1- We will be Fun Parents, the kind that dress up and enjoy tricks and treats.

2- We will give out "Good Candy".

3- We will Not travel hither and thro to see our family, instead, we will entreat them to come to us, with a yummy Halloween Dinner (and it works!).

Many of you have asked, some of begged, for a copy of the Halliday Family Pumpkin Carols, which we sing after we carve our pumpkins. Although I cannot give you the entire book, I will share my very favorite, I expect great things from you all come 2010!

The 12 Days of Halloween

On the twelfth day of Halloween My True Love Gave to me:

Twelve bats a-flying, Eleven masks a-leering, Ten ghouls a-groaning,

Nine ghosts a-booing, Eight monsters shrieking, Seven pumpkins glowing,

Six goblins gobbling, FIVE SCARY SPOOKS, Four Skeletons, Three black Cats,

Two trick-or- treaters and An owl in a dead tree!

Must be Nana...

Mountian Dew in the Fridge, Lucky Charms in the Pantry, Pumpkin's with Stickers all around the house, Bath and Body Works Air Fresheners replenished in every room, Spaghetti Factory leftovers, all of the children's clothes washed and returned to their place and three little ones who weren't the least bit sad we were gone, adds up to a weekend with Nana. Kel and I couldn't say no to a (all expense paid) long weekend in Scottsdale, staying at the most fabulous place (for free) for the Doctor to complete some "Training" . Can you blame us? I did some training of my own by the pool, reading the most fun book: The Hunger Games. We felt so lucky to get away on a well needed restful trip and can't thank my Mom enough for all of her goodness and patience with our kids. Thank you Nana, next time we'll take you with us....but then we'll need someone else to fill her large care-taking shoes.....any takers?

Oh What a Beautiful Morning

Oh What a beautiful Day........

Today I choose to be happy. I have loved riding Lizzy to school every morning. The cool Autumn air awakes my still groggy senses and I'm able to more fully appreciate the beauty around me. We live near majestic mountains, the eastern morning sun cascades the most glorifying light off their peaks, and I feel lucky to enjoy it. Max notices all matter of animal life behind me in the bike trailer and loudly makes everyone aware of their presence. Rosie tries so hard to keep up with big sister, while still telling her to watch out for cars and look both ways. Lizzy appreciates her morning entourage and makes up super hero names for us as we bike (I'm Magnificent Mommy, then we have Lizzy the Leopard followed by little Robin Rosie-who can really fly). I enjoy seeing neighbors out enjoying a perfect fall morning. Although life isn't perfect, and I have had a stressful September, I choose happiness through morning bike rides and the hope that 'everything's goin' my way'.

The Fancy Lady...

Goes Shopping:

While Shopping at Nordstrom Rack:

Rosie- Mommy, is this where Fancy Girls shop?

Mommy- Yes, Rosie. It defiantly is. (Fancy Girls who want a deal, that is)

Rosie- O.K. Great! I'm going to look for some more Fancy Clothes, like, you know.

Mommy- Yes, I know. You could use some more school shoes Rose.

Rosie- Hmmmmmmmmm. Let me see. (after several attempts to find fancy shoes that were appropriate on the preschool play ground, she found these, and it was love at first sight...can you blame her?)

Gets Fancy:
Rosie (at 8:00 a.m.)- Nana, when are you coming to take me for our special day like Lizzy?

Nana- Ask your Mom when you can go, I can go on Monday or Tuesday.

Rosie- When is Monday or Tuesday? Is that today? Is that tomorrow day? No Max, you can't come, it's for girls, not BOYS (Max is devastated).

Goes to Preschool:

(The Mother goes in to wake older sister Lizzy D. for school and finds a surprise...)

Mommy- Rosie!! What are you doing up so early? And getting dressed? And Bed already made? While Lizzy is still sleeping?

Rosie- MOMM-Y don't you remember that I have preschool today and we have to Be Prepared?

Mommy- Oh, yes, Rosie, I do, but your school doesn't start until after Lunch.

Rosie- I need to get ready, so I'll be ready first. Before Lizzy (that shouldn't be a problem).

Mommy- O.K., Rosie, way to be prepared!

Rosie- I need my lip gloss that Nana gave me for my back-pack.

Mommy- I completely understand, my Fancy Girl (LIZZY WAKE-UP!!).

Rosie- I just can't find what purse it's in!

Letter of the Day....

P.

A dear friend and mentor once taught me a valuable lesson. Ms. Peck, a fine educator and an even better teacher begins her 3rd grade class the same way everyday. During roll call, her students answer with a "PREPARED" or "NOT PREPARED" reply. Why not the traditional "Here" you may ask? I asked the same question. Her response: "Because I expect my students to come Prepared to school everyday. We need to start the morning Prepared and ready to begin the day. Students don't want to answer "Not Prepared" so, they are more likely to (on their own) Prepare for school." BRILLIANT, I thought, so I tucked that away in my mothering memory bank, to be used at the most perfect time......which happens to be now.

I obsessed about what our Family Back to School Goal would be. Looking back at last year's morning routines helped me see where there was definite room for improvement -for all of us. Reading Nie Nie inspired me to 'step-it-up' in my own mothering abilities and responsibilities. I realized that our family needed a good lesson on 'Being Prepared'. So, thanks to Ballet Amy and Family Fun, I was able to 'plan my work and work my plan'. We made "Be Prepared" place mats for FHE, and developed better organizational strategies. I have made it a personal goal to be more prepared in all aspects of my life. Already, it has paid off for our family. Hopefully, with a little luck, and a lot of thinking ahead, we'll be able to answer "PREPARED" to life's roll call this year.

School Girl

Dear 2nd Grade,

I present to you a professionally manicured & pedicured (Thanks Nana!), newly outfitted, sun-kissed, mom-kissed, excited and well prepared, Lizzy D. Treat her kindly. Enjoy her. Fill her mind with "virtuous, lovely,...praiseworthy," things. And please send her home promptly at 3:35 with a smile, and plenty of exciting news to share of the adventures you two will have together.

Warmly,

Her Mother.

P.S.- If you could also teach her to remember to bring home her lunch box each day from school, that would be fabulous.

P.P.S- Also, it would be nice if you didn't send home any homework over the weekends, holidays, or my birthday, or Lizzy's birthday, in fact, the whole month of May should simply be avoided. Thank you for your understanding.

Rewind

Is July really over? Truly? It was so fun. I felt busy. But, it was a good kind of busy. The kind of busy out having fun. July is so Grand, for many reasons:

Reason #1- Growing.

Lizzy is getting bigger, older, and a little braver.

Reason #2- Facepainting.

Reason #3- "Fire WERKS" in the Mountains.
("That go BOOM BOOM then CHHHHHHHH, like that") Max


Reason #4-Children's Bike Parades.
(FOR FREEEEEEE)


Reason 5- Swimsuits.

Reason #6- Family Bonding.
(anything will unite a family if it involves swimming suits and a cooler)

Reason 7- The 4th Of July Festivities.

Reason 8- SHOPPING & COORDINATING.

Shopping for the perfect summer outfit.

Shopping At The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

Shopping on Vacation.

Ahhhhhhh, retail therapy!

If you Lead...

I will Follow.

It's this man I prefer to follow-always.

Today we celebrate 10 years of marriage bliss. I count my self more than blessed to be Kelly's wife. I have followed him to new places, discovered with him new things, leaned on his strength when I had none, trusted his judgement during crucial times, learned through his example and reached a greater potential being 'we' instead of 'me'.

Looking back on 5 moves, 5 jobs (collectively), 3 cars and 3 children, we can truly say that: These are the best days of our lives!

Now, if I could just get him to understand that doing the dishes means: dishes, counters, table & SWEEPING...... maybe that can be our goal for the next decade.

Made for You and Me

One Saturday afternoon in late May:

Lizzy- Rosie, I can give you bike riding lessons today!

Rosie- OK, what level am I on?

Lizzy- I think level 2.

Rosie- Really?!? I've got to go tell Mommy!

Lizzy- But, before I can teach you, we have to start the lessons with the Pledge.

Rosie- Lizzy, I only know the pledge of alli-chance, not the bike pledge!?!

Lizzy- ROSIE, it's the SAME THING.

Rosie- OK! I should say it with my Helmet on.....right Lizzy....??

Happy 4th of July!

My 'Pal'

Warm Water, Warmer Red Rocks, 'Forgotten Canyons',An Abundance of Sea Shells (don't ask me how they got there)
Very NICE friends to save us when 'Family First' (my Dad's boat, his pride and joy)
became Family Last and broke down on Day ONE (that's right)!
Thank Heavens for NICE friends who have a
NICE boat and were NICE enough to say they actually enjoyed hanging out with us
and completely saved our trip!

The feeling of warm sand squishing between our toes

Time spent with the Greats

A beach all to ourselves.........

These are just a few things I love about my good friend, Pal.

At the young age of 2, I made a life long 'PAL'. Traveling down south to a warm and beautiful lake has become a expected tradition my entire life. We didn't make it down every year, but we went enough to develop a close friendship with this magical place in the dessert. She has taught me much on the subject of beauty, discovery and family bonding. It was on her 'glassy' early morning water that I first learned to water ski, behind my Grandfather's boat: 'Paul's Ark'. My earliest memories in the extreme sport of tubing happened as a young girl skidding across her warm waves and holding on for dear life. Dusk boat rides into Pal's beautiful canyons opened conversations with my brothers and husband that I still think about today. Luckily, my family was the first to introduce my true love, Kelly, to our friend, and he in turn became very fond. So fond that is, that he did indeed make 'Studs of Pal', a dvd complete with pictures and video from 9 years spent on the lake. We enjoyed his digital masterpiece on the first night of our trip, laughing at how much we've aged and how much longer men's swimming trunks are these days.
Now, 29 years later, she still lives up to her reputation. Lizzy, became a little braver on the tube and hiked a mountain without breaking a sweat. Rosie didn't let the cooler than usual weather and water stop her from enjoying the lake's spoils. Max, oh Max, he enjoyed being next to his Dad, while wanting to do everything everyone was doing......at once. He, like usual was hard to keep up with, and is still asking to return. I love spending time with my family, especially my parents who want so much for their children to remain close and continue a family tradition. Pal's peacefulness and tranquility fuel me. She, like a best friend, never disappoints, and I think always looks forward to my next visit.

Part 2- Ballet & Me

Enrolling your child in a dance class can be tricky. Just like choosing a pre-school, dance educational philosophies must be thought about and decided upon. Finding the perfect mix of quality and fun instruction- (meet Ms. Karame) can be difficult. Hoping your children make friends within their class can be worrisome. Wanting a classy dance recital that uses age appropriate costumes and music can be hard to find. And lastly, having all of these things and enjoying the company of the other Mother's seems like a tall, almost impossible order to fill. But, somehow I was able to have it all this last year.

Elizabeth and Rosie's ballet school became my Wednesday afternoon Home. I looked forward to going each week and often wondered how the 2 hours passed so quickly. Both the girls and I made new friends, of the close friend variety. Advice was given, recipes shared, support offered and bonds created. When news of the School closing came, tears flowed freely as we discussed how much we loved our little Ballet School; how much we loved each other and how we had taken it all for granted. Now, after a successful June recital, we pledged to stay together, once strangers, now a cohesive ballet family. We have found a new place; we will make it our new home.

My girls enjoy dancing for different reasons it seems. Lizzy, naturally graceful, cried after her recital because she would never be able to perform her dance again. Rosie, a bubbly people-person, cried herself to sleep because she wasn't going to be in “Ms. Karame's class ever, ever, ever again”. As for me, I'm mourning a loss of yet another element in my life changing, and at the same time, doing my best to enjoy the journey along the way.

Sands Through an Hourglass, part 1-

PART 1-

"Rosie, do you know what you would you like to be when you grow up?"

"Yes!", "What?"

"A FANCY LADY!!"

"Like Sands Through an Hour Glass,
So are the Days of our Life"

(Who didn't watch Days in their teens?)

I must confess, the days of my life have been pretty sweet over the past 9 months of school. How did they go so fast? We celebrated with Rosie as she and her preschool classmates entertained us with song and poem at her preschool promotion. Rosie knew every song, preformed every move with incredible stage presence. We were so proud of our little Rose. She enjoyed it and I could tell really loved her classmates and her dear teachers. She will now advance to another year of preschool, but will it be the same?

Both Rosie and Lizzy attended Ms. Lorie's preschool. The same preschool my younger siblings went to, in my home town. I love Ms. Lorie's curriculum and educational philosophies. Rosie attended preschool with my two good friends' children, promising to marry one...."DABE" (Gabe). Seems perfect. I spent those Tuesday and Thursday afternoons spending time with my close friends. Sometimes the park, sometimes the mall, sometimes McDonald's, many times Target. We shared a year together. I cherished those days. I looked forward to those times with just Max. What a different boy he was as a 'singleton'. I learned so much about my son, I learned so much about myself.

Now, Rosie will go to a new preschool near our home, for the convenience of her Mother. I look forward to carpooling with my favorite carpool buddy. But, I can't help but wonder if I'm making the right call. I love Ms. Lorie and Mr. Avery (her father). I love Rosie's friends, which are my friends' children. I'm sure the new preschool will be fine, but will it ever be great?

Cami expressed the feelings of remebering the moment so beautifully in a poem written for my birthday. I don't normally share this sort of thing, but it seems to be the perfect ending for this post and so, I shall:

REMEMBER WHEN

“Remember when” That’s what we will say,

That is what we say

We eat salads
The sun on your face

The freckles on your nose

The “theme” for the day.

Your eyes like chocolate

From one mother to another

A gift only given in a space

Created, nurtured

By the power to relate

A space forever occupied

You with your perfect-ness

I forgive you for that

Me Not so much.

You forgive me for that

We apply sun-block

We wipe noses

Lizzy and Monet

With their missing teeth

Gabe and Rosie

With their hidden kisses

Max with his Trains

Tea with her thighs

“Remember when” we’ll say“Remember when”

My Cup Runneth Over

My Dear and Faithful Blogg Readers,

I apologize for my lack of posting as of late. I have been busy. Busy filling my pail. Busy drinking in life's goodness and blessings. I promise to return after one more trip to the well. I plan on bringing buckets and buckets of happiness to share and remember. Stay Tuned!

Passing The Torch

Recently Kelly and I had the privilege of attending my younger brother Benjamin's law school graduation. I was and am so proud of my brother for this major accomplishment. The desire to practice law runs deep in his veins as his Uncle, Grandfather and Great-father precede him in the career of attorney.

Ben, the curly haired middle child, was quiet and at times, lost in the crowd of 4 boys. He has always been kind hearted, intelligent and sometimes mischievous. But, because of his sweetness and boyish charm he was rarely in the hot seat. My earliest memories of Ben were of him standing in his crib calling for Ra Ra, his older Sister Sarah. I would come and scoop him up and play with him, cherishing the fact that he called for me over my Mother, and that I (5 years his senior) could comfort him. From those early days I have grown use to Ben calling for me, confiding in me and sharing his life with me. I feel privileged. I admire Ben. I love being his older Sister.
Now, his supportive wife Amy and their darling son Owen have worked together in accomplishing the task at hand: Forth Generation Law School Graduate. I know my Grandfather is so pleased. He looks forward to sharing an office with Ben, imparting his Grandson with wisdom about Law and maybe more importantly, Life. Congratulations Ben and Amy!

7 Wonders

Lizzy kicked off her birthday festvities with some glow-in-the-dark bowling.




She was excited about her new bike, which took her hours to pick out.


My Grandfather Paul and Lizzy have always enjoyed a special bond.

It's a wonder to me that I have been a mother for 7 years. Elizabeth turned seven last week and we joyfully celebrated her birthday. Not knowing what to expect, I remember pondering on the thought of being a mother during the days before her birth. Happily I smile to myself and give thanks to Heaven for sending us our close to perfect oldest child.

Lizzy was born in California. My dear mother flew in for nearly 3 weeks to help with her first grandchild. She came a few days before my due date to assist with last minute preparations. In fact, we spent my early labor walking the mall, getting some last minute essentials (at Baby Gap of course). I had no appetite at dinner that night and became somewhat discouraged. I was having mild contractions off and on during the day but they didn't seem to be leading anywhere. After a warm bath, my wise mother told me to go to bed. I asked if she would be going to bed too and she informed me that she knew I was going to have the baby that night, so she would just stay up and wait for me. Well, she was right! Not soon after I fell asleep I was awaken by what child birth really feels like. My mom was right there, all knowing, and together the three of us drove to the hospital to meet our Elizabeth only 6 hours later.

We hadn't picked out a name for our daughter before she was born. Kelly had always loved the name Elizabeth (a family name) and I agreed that it was and still is arguably the most feminine, beautiful name for a little girl, girl, teenager and lady. It seemed to suit her instantly. Diane is my mother's name and both Kelly and I felt overwhelmingly that this should be her middle name. As we have gotten to know Lizzy more and more, we see why she was named after my mother. They are one in the same! The nick-name "Lizzy" came naturally after the name choice of Elizabeth as it has always been a favorite of mine. Our Lizzy has grown into her name quite nicely. Her femininity, grace, poise, sweetness, politeness and sensitivity pairs well with the name Elizabeth. Her curiosity, creativity and humor make her our "Lizzy D".

I marvel and wonder at the joy motherhood has brought me. Thank you Elizabeth for 7 wonder-filled years as our first born. We are so proud of you, we want so much for you, we learn so much from you, we love our darling Lizzy.