Happy, Happy, HAPPY

Why are we no longer saying, "Happy New Year!"? It's only January 20th! I feel like we should say that to one another until at least February 13th. I suggest that date as the cut off because by then we will be saying, "Happy Valentines Day!"

I love the month of January, but I love 10 months out of the year so that really isn't saying much...but January wraps up the holiday season and provides closure for that time of the year. I enjoy the holidays, which begin in October and end when the last Christmas storage box is packed away in the garage around December 31st. (OK, the truth is I just put the last of the Christmas decorations away last weekend). I always look forward to hanging our stockings on the mantel, but by December 31st all those decorations just make the house feel cluttered and I am ready to take them down.

I like January because it feels relaxing. All the added activities we do during the holidays are no longer, and we are back to the "normal" busy everyday life. It's also a time to be reflective on the past, look forward and focus on today.

2011 had some momentous moments in our house:

1) For the first time in 10 years we had no babies at home! Kamryn started Preschool in August.
2) There is no longer a highchair in our kitchen! This too has been part of our decor for 10 years!
3) I read 6 books! (reading more was something I hoped to accomplish in 2011)
4) I ran my first 5K! And I'm still running!
5) Diondray and I went to three concerts! Alica Keys, Incubus and Lauren Hill.
6) Brynn asked to be (and was) Baptized!

I could go on, but it's late. 2011 was a HAPPY year. Happy, Happy, Happy is exactly how I feel!

Happy New Year, Happy Day!

A moment in December 2011, enjoying the day, each other, and life!













Life is beautiful, Happy New Year!

'Tis the Season

We have been busy filling our days with all the extra activities that turn this season into a magical time of year. We decorated our tree, visited with Santa, enjoyed a few Christmas programs, had a party, gained a few pounds, baked and baked and baked, gained a few pounds...

We got home at 2:00 am this morning from our traditional Christmas trip to Knott's Berry Farm and have been in our pajamas watching movies all day (getting movies through the Wii is fantastic)! This is something we don't do often and feels very holidayish. (I think I made that word up).

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Kamryn's first Christmas Program. (Actually it was her first program of any kind!) Her teacher Mrs. Sue (and Mrs. Sue's husband) put together a picture slide show in which the children acted out the story of the birth of Christ. While the slide show played, the children sang. It was wonderful.

Taking a seat.




Dad and sisters watching.


TRUE ROCK STAR!




A VISIT WITH SANTA. THIS PICTURE SAYS IT ALL...












Our Christmas party, which we shared with amazing,
wonderful family and friends! And this is the only picture! What
can I say? I was having a great time! :)



'Tis the season and it's in full force at our house! Merry, Merry Christmas!

California Girls

Children don't seem to get cold when they are outside and I think the statistics from our house can prove that. 4 out of 4 girls in my home never seem to be cold when out doors.

I am constantly saying, "Put on your jacket, take a jacket, don't forget your jacket!"

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Our Christmas tree is not up (we haven't even been to the tree farm), Christmas cards are not ordered, I have not purchased one gift...OK maybe I shouldn't have sat here and reminded myself of all the things I need to do!

But, we have been to the beach.

Even though to me it's COLD (which it actually is) - the sun is shining, the sky is clear and beautiful shades of blue. The weather is crisp and even with a hint of warmth from the sun, IT IS COLD. But not to my girls. So instead of "getting things done on my to do list" I am at the beach. Celebrating the day, the moment and life.

All the other stuff can wait, it's really not that important anyway....












Merry Christmas! I have some late nights ahead!

Happy Thanksgiving

Ohhhhh this is my favorite Holiday! I love all the food that comes with Thanksgiving and that everything seems to pause, so families can gather around the table and eat. It is also a time we reflect, out loud, about all the things we are thankful for.

Diondray was on duty, however I tell the girls we are thankful he has a job. REALLY THANKFUL. And we stick to our traditions and have Thanksgiving dinner and he will eat left overs today. :)

I am very thankful for the life I live and all the wonderful things that have come with it. We all have one, so embrace it, cherish it and live it!

Thanksgiving 2011




























Tucking Jaden into bed last night I said, "Today was a great day."
She replied, "Mom, you say that everyday."

That is true, we are blessed around here, it often feels like everyday is a great day...
and I am so thankful.