Saturday, January 26, 2013

Old Friends

McNamaras came in over the weekend and into the week.

So fun to have them in town!


BFF.
 


Visited the beach and the harbor after Carter's basketball game.
 








Tried for a shot of Allison and me.  This is the best that came out.
 


Allison and I figured out that Jack was the age of Cailyn when we met.  And, Lainey was barely 3.  Crazy.

We gifted this bike that Blake created to them.  Littles learned to ride on two wheels with it.  A blatant rip off of the very expensive version sold in stores today.  Basically, he just took the peddles off.  Forces them to learn balance.
 

We've been a comedy of errors lately.  I got a flat tire en route to the zoo.  Allison took the kids while I tended to road side assistance.

More on that later.

Upon arriving, I was greeted warmly.  Is there anything better?
 

At one point, years ago, these two we slated to get married.

Jack is SO not interested now.





Allison pointed out this lovely lesson to the children.  Anything that mentions "dragging the carcass" is always appropriate.
 


Hosted a party for Allison one evening.
 


Valentine cookies were decorated.
 


Clearly, we are raising over-achievers.  
 

McNamaras are big fans of Finn.

Finn is still undecided on the McNamaras.






They are back to Sacramento now and we miss them dearly.  Until next time!




Sunday, January 20, 2013

Valentine Inspiration

Valentine's Day is easy to get excited about.  Christmas is over and the house looks like it needs some love.  I'm working on our mantle.  

New "love" banner arrived today and over-sized conversation hearts are en route!




Some other ideas I've found and love.

****never made these....look like fun!


****vintage valentines

****made these last year

****so simple and sweet


Trying to find inspiration for the kids' valentines.  They'll choose their own for class parties, but I like to create one for family and friends.

Other ideas?  How do you celebrate?




Saturday, January 19, 2013

Mardi Gras + Disney = Fun!

Disneyland loves Louisiana.

Which makes me love Disney even more.

We celebrated Mardi Gras with the park on Friday night.  Also celebrated mama being home again!  

Gave Blake the night off and headed to Anaheim.

Nice, Lainey.





Shrimp Corn Fritters.  Yum.
 

Enjoyed the holiday lights for the last time.  Small World closes down tomorrow for 2 weeks to remove!
 


Laine and I started dancing like crazy when we heard the band.

Carter and Jack are not fans of our dancing.
 


We rode Star Tours for the first time.  Well, Carter's an old pro.

First time for the littles and me.
 


Mrs. Bieber was there.
 



Chip n Dale were fun!
 

Spending the weekend with the McNamaras......in town for a bit......Allison's birthday is Monday and we're got plenty to do.

Happy holiday weekend.  Back soon!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

New Year, New Schedule!

It's a good thing!

For the past week and a half, I've been super busy.  Beyond busy.  Waking up at 6am to start one job and then finishing another at 10pm.

But, it's been worth it!  I've resigned from White House Black Market and have taken a position with a children's theater in San Diego.

Non-profit.  

Full of fun.  Child-focused.

And, I'll work only during school hours.  I couldn't be happier.  While WHBM has been very good to me, I've missed our family like crazy.  

So, Monday - Friday, you can find me here:


Or something like it. Ours is itty bitty.

Kids are beyond thrilled.  We all are!

Back soon with some fun Valentine plans and decor.

Hope you are having a fantastic new year!


Friday, January 11, 2013

Biddy Ball

Lots of pictures from Biddy Ball. It was chaotic and fun. Blake is coaching. Carter is helping. 




It's an all around family affair.



Starnes defense is pretty tough.



Kelly came with us and brought Magnolia.


Sidelines proved just as fun as the game intself! That's Jack, as #8.



I think we technically lost the game, but won the relay race.  Note to self:  This is all that will matter, moving forward.  Win the damn race.


Kelly and Magnolia Beau!



Game ended with Lainey licking Jack.  That went over well.



Girls only!


It was a total mess, as expected.

Came home and Blake made us jambalaya with French bread and butter.  Yum.  It's Mardi Gras season!