Life Flying By

Summer Adventures

2011-08-07T06:52:00.010-06:00

We went to the Keys over the 4th of July for some family fun!! Actually we were in Miami for fireworks and to visit Super Popop and the rest of the family and then spent the week down on the Islands with Gramsi and Popop. It was one of those vacations that fell into place, probably because we had nothing planned with little expectations. It began with a wonderful visit with the family. On the 4th we had plans to go to a local Hospital that was supposedly doing fireworks. When we arrived about 8:45 we were informed there was no show. Somehow the security guard felt sorry for us and told us to go to the parking garage of the hospital. This allowed us to see the entire skyline from Ft. Lauderdale to Homestead. We didn't just see fireworks, we saw them all and with a cool breeze blowing:) The rest off the week was as blessed with us having calm seas for the glass bottom boat, watching dolphin shows under cover during the rain, and finally making our flight home, barely!!

It was a BLAST:)

Our next adveture was camping with the Richerts at Buffalo Creek. This was Ella's first camping, and Sam's first time with her own sleeping bag!!! GREAT SUCCESS:)
Relaxation, cooking on the fire, hiking, smores in the dark, lots of dirt in our hair.
What else needs to be said? We're going again next week!!

Our Dear Friend Gary

2011-07-17T09:04:00.008-06:00

Diane (beloved wife of Gary)

I wanted to share some thoughts and feelings about Gary. My goal is not to provoke tears or sadness, mainly because Gary would not want that, but I just want to reassure you that he will not be forgotten and he will always have a special place in the hearts of 1512 Whitetail. I find it funny that 2 guys, one from New York, the other from New Mexico with a 23 year disparity in age could find similarities in stubbornness and be blunt in calling things the way they are and yet still call each other friends. Gary reinforced to me in many ways what a friend is and for that I am forever grateful! How many friends do you know that will show up to your 40th Birthday party with an old man mask to give you a glimpse of how you will look in the later years? Gary had an uncanny way of letting me know when to lighten up when it seemed nobody else would! I will miss him looking over my shoulder and helping me work on my car or him inquiring about my races. I may not have realized it then but it meant a lot to me. I will really miss seeing your garage door open and be able to stop and talk to him or have him give me a hand or even just wave! He will not be forgotten and he will be sorely missed! We are here for you.

Love, The O'Briens
P.S. It may seem like a strange request, but it will mean a lot if you could please leave the garage door open on my race days, or whenever is convenient for you, that way I know he hasn't forgotten about me as well!!

*A letter to Diane from AJ

Growing...

2011-07-15T08:11:00.007-06:00

As the kids don't ever stop growing, moving, talking, changing, so life goes on. One thing that unfortunately is not growing very well any more is the garden. We have had crazy thunderstorms the past few weeks in the afternoon. While the kids have fared well, the plants didn't. Here is the last great pictures we took. Some things might still make it but just barely:(
Here are some other moments that have been Flying By...

Teo Tim and Amanda visit with Kingston and Bella

Chapters opening....chapters closing

2011-06-19T08:27:00.003-06:00

Popop, Super Popop, GG

Today GG has left our world. We count our blessing of all the moments that we spent with her over the years. We are so glad to have memories with Sam and her Super Greats!! We wish the family joyful times as they transition through this hard process, that they remember to embrace each other fondly.

One Massive Update

2011-05-27T07:37:00.021-06:00

Sorry to anyone not interested but I need to record these life moments somewhere and I've been a slacker. So, I'm going to put in 2 months worth of information mainly about the girls. For those of you that are interested, please enjoy the mass overload.

I better start writing stuff down because Ella is officially moving forward. It's more of an army crawl at this point (started 5/29/11) but it gets her where she wants to go.
Ella:

- around the first week of March she laughed for the first time and began knowing her name
- 3/11 rolled over to get a toy
- 4/9 rolling over and back all directions and playing/eating feet; pushing herself backwards
- 5/25 sitting up on own
- 5/29 army crawl forward

Sam:
Here are some highlights from our active, talkative toddler.
"You're kidding, that's great!!" a direct quotes with lots of expression and arm gestures.
She began counting objects in a book in April
She was saying "underwear" for under water.....we must have been swimming a lot, and doing the potty thing all at the same time:)
Loves the song "Big Girls Don't Cry" that Teo Tim put on her CD.
Tim mentioned that when he's having a bad day he thinks of our girls and it helps ground him!!
4/9 we had our first stomach flu and puked for the first time (I know something everyone wants to know and remember)
5/13 Sam had a fun weekend with Dad, Grami, and Grandma while Mom and Ella spent the week in Dallas with the Trinity girls. My first time away from her other than the 1 night of Ella's birth.

Here she had fun on a trip to the Aquarium.

We re-stained our banister, painted our office, and got new carpet this spring. Sam helped every step of the way, and she really had some fun too!!!

Words straight from my heart....

2011-03-23T09:44:00.003-06:00

and from the Heart of Yahweh!!!

Please go read this post at Sorta Crunchy. I found her writings just after Sam was born. She has been very inspirational and helpful in finding my balance in raising myself, my marriage, and my children.

Meals 3/11/11

2011-03-11T16:12:00.008-07:00

Sat - Coconut Beef Meatballs; Zucchini noodles; Tomato Sauce

Sun - Chicken Mole

mon - Chicken fingers w/ Orange Ginger Sauce; Leeks and other veggies

Tues - Bean and Collard Soup

Wed - Roasted Chicken and veggies

Thurs - Chicken Soup

Fri - Leftovers? Whatever is left?

To Try:
Shredded Beef Roasted Red Pepper Burritos

They way things are...

2011-03-11T14:38:00.003-07:00

YES, She is fast asleep for the night!!!

Menu 2/28/11

2011-02-25T08:15:00.006-07:00

Sun - Garlic Thyme Chicken Soup; fresh bread and cheese

Mon - Turkey Thighs w/ Pesto; Sauerkraut

Tues - Soup from freezer Borscht, cabbage? We'll see?

Wed - BBQ chicken Pizza

Thurs - Pot Roast; Turnips

Fri - Chicken(geek style Roasted); cabbage slaw

Sat - Dinner w/ Friends!!!

Menus 2/21/11

2011-02-20T10:39:00.005-07:00

Sun - Grandpa (the bachelore) coming for dinner!!! He's bringing fish and asparagus, we'll add something to the mix, cauliflower fritters?

Mon - Quiche; salad

Tues - Leek Soup; I did this totally different with Butternut Squash in place of potatoes, and half the amount

Wed - Tacos

Thurs - Salmon w/ Ume Plum Vinegar; squash??

Fri - Green chili turkey burgers

Sat - Sara and Libby in town!!!!

Try next week: BBQ chicken Pizza

Momentus Occasions

2011-02-17T10:26:00.005-07:00

What marks time?

Rolling over, wearing underpants....

These are excitements in our world over the last week.

It's time for the potty dance, Sam is done with diapers after 5 days of being dry all night!!!! I didn't really think that it would be so nice, but wow it's AMAZING!!! Here are some memories to embarrass boys later.

This is a blanket and pillow G & G Cribley gave Sam to use at the evening storytime at the library, it was a potty present!!

We can't forget the little Ella Bella. I don't know how but she ROLLED OVER today, multiple times from her back to belly. She will be 16 weeks tomorrow...how can she be rolling over already? Where is that thing called time going, how are we supposed to enjoy every second when they are flying by?

2011-02-14T08:26:00.005-07:00

Sun - Beef meatballs with creamy, cheesy chard and tomatoes

Mon - Curried Mutton w/ Eggplant and Lima Beans

Tues - Baked fish; spaghetti squash

Wed - Chicken Tam Kha Soup (or our version of Chicken Lemongrass w/ coconut milk)

Thurs - Minestrone w/ Kale and Yams

Fri - Green chili turkey burgers

Sat - BBQ chicken Pizza or crepes with different fillings. Possibly with friends!!!

Menu 2/7/11

2011-02-01T09:30:00.005-07:00

Sun - Superbowl w/ grandma/grandpa; or soup and cheese quesadillas

Mon - Tuna; mac and cheese; salad

Tues - Crockpot Jambalaya; Cauliflower rice

Wed - Spicy Shepard's Pie

Thurs - Leah and Thomas for dinner Roasted chicken and Chard soup

Fri - Ginger eggplant saute Barley

Sat - Meatloaf; veggies; salad

New Years Resolutions

2011-02-01T09:11:00.003-07:00

SAM:

Peel and Eat Orange all by myself - check
Manipulate parents - Double check
Get undressed and dressed for bed all by myself - check and mommy really loves me now
Use only the potty all day - 2 days in a row, only a million more to go!!
Learn as many words as possible - work in process, good to go on those bad ones D*** It:)

ELLA:

Smile a lot - check
Laugh at fan - check 1/12/11
Laugh at sister - Triple check, after all she is a bundle of energy
Grab and hold toy - check but not sure how to feel when it smacks me in the face laugh/cry?
Roll to sides and scoot around in a circle - done 1/31/11
Suck thumb and enjoy it all by myself - 1/2 check; did it 1/28/11 but can't seem to enjoy it again?

The BEST new Menu week

2011-01-25T17:22:00.002-07:00

This is what I'm planning this week, we'll see:)
Tues - Fish, salad; Carrot Mash

Wed - Twice Baked Acorn Squash

Thurs - Mexican Bean bake

Fri - Butternut squash casserole

Sat - zucchini lasagna; salad

Sun- Frittata

Mon - Green Chili Chicken bake

Dad brought these home to celebrate our health

2011-01-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

2011-01-23T16:31:00.003-07:00

Dad and his girls!!!

Ella 12/10 Sam 3/09

Our sick girls.
Sam got the croup in Dec. 2010, then a BAD cold in Jan. A week later Ella came down with RSV, that BAD cold that is REALLY BAD for infants. We spent one night in the hospital with oxygen support and 3 nights really worrying. We even got to wonder around the house with a long oxygen tube.

Sammie helped daddy shave to keep themselves entertained. Plus they went to pajama storytime with Mr. Cliff at the Library. He reads books and does magic tricks before bedtime. Notice the striped PJs matched with cowgirl boots and pink coat, wonder who chose that outfit?

Moments as these...

2011-01-06T08:58:00.006-07:00

Well, The entire family got some level of sickness over the last couple of weeks. It all began with Sam and I getting a cold. Then pour Sam got the Croup REALLY BAD. The only fun part was that she got to sleep in a humidifing sheet tent over her bed. Luckily Ella only acquired a little cough, momma's milk is the best!!

How often do you see a 2 yr old sitting for more than 2 seconds? Wow she was sick!!

Soon after, however, she was back to her Diva self.
The other day she brought a book to me to read called Frederick. This book happens to be in German, given to her by her Aunt Amie. I stated that I can't read German but would be happy to make up a story. She simply stated that "Amie can read it." We will Skype some day soon and have her read it:)

Little Ella is establishing quite the personality of her own. As she learns to control all these flailing body parts all she really wants is to suck her thumb. Unfortunately the arms don't cooperate and she insists with a ton of frustration to not have any help. This makes for some noise before falling asleep for naps.

Update on the Girls

2010-12-22T08:53:00.005-07:00

Sam has been the best big sister between her patience and attention to Ella. She really has found a nice balance between being herself and being a sister. She has learned to sing Hush Little Baby (the non-materialistic version by Sylvia Long) and likes to sing it to Ella. The best advancement in her language, and there is a lot of talking going on, is when she learned to pronounce her Ls because of her sisters name. The day she came to the hospital she was sticking her tongue way out when saying Ella's name. I could not figure out why until my sister pointed out that it was the first time she had really used an L. She can say her Ls now without sticking her tongue at you!!!Ella is growing like a weed and gained 1 lb the first 10 days of life!!! She is a great eater and great sleeper (thank goodness). She started smiling at us on purpose the week of Dec. 13th and sucked her thumb (twice) the eve of Dec 19th. It was so cute to see her joy in finding her thumb, but painful for the ears when she can't find it:)

Family

2010-12-03T11:02:00.004-07:00

My sister has been running a blog carnival called Three Things Thursday as a way to connect with everyone around the globe. She presents a theme and everyone reveals 3 of themselves in relation. Please check it out and participate to let us know more about you!!

THREE THINGS ABOUT.....
OUR FAMILY!!

1. It is amazing to have insightful support from all family members. My husband had the pleasure of taking the month off to bond with our growing family. It passed by too quickly. We just discussed last night how balanced we are with each other, in a way that is incomplete without each other. When I am at my wits end, he is calm and patient, when he is boiling over, I find peace. Is this what God meant as "one!"
2. The most insightful has been our babies!! As Sam grows so quickly and learns to manipulate our every move we can't help but learn and grow. Sometimes I wonder if we will be able to keep up with her quick little mind, and feet too!! Ella thankfully has allowed us to slow down and really notice and enjoy each little up and down. It is so nice to really observe the infant stage without worrying about just keeping them alive!
3. Our parents, the grandparents, just want to be the legs of our table as we find our balance. They wish to help and hold us up with all the mundane chores while ever so slightly guiding us through listening.
Thank you to all our family and friends for participating in our journey:)

Blessings II

2010-11-16T14:46:00.012-07:00

Ella Lorraine O'Brien

We did a blessing for Ella with the immediate family here in Colorado. Present were Grams and Pop pop O'Brien, Grandma and Grandpa Cribley, and Aunt/Uncle McCracken. We placed the hoopa with our wedding cloth draped over the top in our living room with beautiful light and out of the cold winter day. AJ read a poem he wrote and everyone else gave blessings both traditional and from their hearts. Our loving families desire the best for this new gracious little girl!

Your Dad wrote and read to you...

What is a name like Ella Lorraine?

Ella was the name that we initially agreed,
while Lorraine was the name after a special great Aunt to me!!

Ella Lorraine you arrived with minimal pain in a dream like state,
While your parents looked at you in a wondrous stare with mouths agape.

We were dying to meet you
Your sister Sammy couldn't wait to squeeze you!

The past 9 months of not knowing who you were or what you would be was a mystery,
But the mere illusion of Dad knowing was the ultimate hilarity.

You were asleep when I first saw your face,
As your nurse Diana pulled you of your comfy space.

I will never forget when you were presented to me,
With the lingering question, well is it a he or a she?

In that point in time it was hard to get past,
All the poop that covered your bare a__!

Everyone was looking at me with pure excitement to be,
It's a girl I said with pure glee,!!
It's another girl to complete me.

You and your sister are everything I have hoped for and more,
I cannot wait to mess with the boys that arrive at our front door!!

Your name will always bring me a smile,
and I pray that our families' journey will take a long...long while.

In closing I'd like to say,
Thank you for being my dream come true each and every day!!

Poppop O'Brien read...

Ella your first name is of German origin your second from the French. What you don't know is your great, great Grandmother on your father's side was Ella, short for Ellen. Your Great Grandmother's sister was named Lorraine. Both of these people were examples of love and generosity to others. They helped those in need during the financial depression and a depression that comes from within. May this tradition of love and generosity to others follow you all the days of your life. Let the smiles of all who gaze upon you bring you the warmth that comes from love and kindness to others. It is said that of all things important, the most important is love. As we look upon your family this day you can see and feel that this is true.

Albert read....
Deuteronomy 6:3-9

Grandpa Cribley read the following...
Grandpa also helped Sam to read...
Sister Samantha's Blessing
A sister is a special gift
given by Yahweh
who understands
our need
for someone
who can be even
closer
than a friend
that
is why Yahweh Gave us sister's

Grandparent's Blessing
Blessed is Ella who comes in Yahweh's name
You are blessed from this house of Yahweh

We all read...
May Yahweh make you like Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah
May Yahweh bless you and safeguard you
May Yahweh show kindness and be gracious to you
May Yahweh turn his countenance to you and establish Shalom for you

Delivery

2010-11-03T15:21:00.005-06:00

The end of October was a busy month, too busy to be having a baby. AJ celebrated his 40th on the 28th and I had to prank the silly guy. We did manage to have a wonderful family day to celebrate his getting old and with the help of his friend Chris I managed to do a little something to his beloved Camaro. Unfortunately he was quick to figure out that the reason the car wouldn't start was sabotage and not the oil and broken parts underneath. Chris did a great job and we at least got his blood pressure up for a few minutes, he thought his racing was over until he could afford a new engine. Anyway, we love you Mr. Comic and hope you enjoyed your 40th!!!
Of course the best birthday present came the next day when.....
Around 3 pm AJ decided to go to the gym while Sam and I took naps....only I wasn't napping because my belly began seriously contracting consistently every 15-20 minutes apart. Keep in mind that I had a midwife appointment that morning and at 10:30 am I was only 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced. I certainly was not thinking anything would be happening that day. By the time AJ got home we were stopping to breath deeply about every 10-15 minutes. AJ kicked into labor coach, adorned the stop watch and began preparing. We needed to pick up our CSA veggies and I wanted to have dinner before going anywhere (we all know that the hospitals don't feed you). So the entire family, including Sadie, jumped in the car. It wasn't so bad, I just had to BREATH every 10 minutes or so. We got home and AJ grilled some chicken while Sam helped my prepared some roasted spaghetti squash. As we ate and debated taking showers the spasms came every 5 minutes or so and my thighs began to quiver. Grandma was quickly called to take over Sam and Sadie (Sam had her first sleepover!!) and we jumped in the car. I called our midwife Diana to let her know we were on our way. She was still in Littleton and said she would meet us at the hospital. She was especially excited because she left for Hawaii the next day and thought she would miss the second babies delivery all together.

We checked into the hospital around 7:20pm and were in the room being checked by Diana at around 7:30. She couldn't believe it, I was 9 cm dilated and ready to push.

Ms. Ella Lorraine was born at 8:27pm, October 29th, 2010.

Pictures by Cora Kemp

2010-11-03T08:27:00.004-06:00

Before we talk about the glorious expansion of our blessed family we must reveal some fabulous pictures taken by our friend Cora at CkempShoot Photography. We spent a few hours at Chatfield Botanical Gardens capturing Sam's 2 year Birthday and Mom's 8th month pregnant belly. Please enjoy and if anyone in Colorado wants a fun photographer please consider Cora!!!

Ella Lorraine Arrived!!!

2010-11-01T10:41:00.004-06:00

We will post stories and pictures in the next few days. Thank you to everyone for the notes and especially THANK YOU to Grandma and Grandpa Cribley for their help with Sam, Sadie, feeding us for 2 nights and just being around:) I'm off to rest with Ella, Dad and Sam attempted Storytime to get Sam out of the house for some sort of normal.

Pictures of the Girls

2010-10-13T17:43:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to take an almost 37 week belly picture and then Sadie and Sam wanted in on the action!!!

Some yummy Recipes we've done recently

2010-09-29T08:25:00.006-06:00

Eggplant/Zucchini lasagna

Sausage Cauliflower Rice

Tortilla Soup slow cooker

Slower Cooker Kitchari(mung bean)

Play Date Celebration

2010-09-24T08:56:00.006-06:00

We had to wear our Birthday Hat with our morning leche!!

Sam, Mom, and baby had a nice relaxing day. We baked cupcakes in the morning with lots of whipped honey cream on top and in the tummies!!! Then we painted some cards, got all clean in the shower, and took a great nap. When Sam woke up Dad was home and got the biggest hug after Sam ran into his arms with him singing Happy Birthday!!!

The beautiful fall day then set the stage for a fun play date in the park with, most IMPORTANTLY, Haty Birtday Cupcakes, and our friends Zane and Aveleen!! Plus mommy got some girl time with Hunter and Kim, thank you ladies:)

The evening was then topped off by a relaxing tasty meal with Grami and Popop from Albuquerque. More Birthday events to come this weekend....Her dress was drenched in bubbles so she spent the last half of the play date in her True Birthday Outfit!!!

Singing a Song to Wake Up

2010-09-23T09:24:00.003-06:00

"How old are you today?" TWO stated with the utmost authority!!!

Sam wakes up some mornings singing a song to herself while lazing in bed, it's such a joyous way to start all of our mornings!!! Today was a glorious day for such an occasion because the song is well known to all..."Haty Birtday to you, Haty Birtday to you!!" That's correct we have been blessed with 2 glorious years in Sam's presence and are so impressed with her every day. The latest amazement are the 5 word sentences she uses to describe nothing less than what SHE WANTS....

"I want to look at picture!" "I want a new song" 'I want to see daddy!"

Look for some fun pictures to come from Birthday, and family events!!

This weeks menu

2010-09-19T20:12:00.002-06:00

Mon - Roasted chicken; veggies

Tues - Chicken/Apple Dogs, corn on the grill

Wed - Leftovers; Beet salad

Thurs - Sam's 2nd Birthday!!!!! Coconut Cupcakes with Sprinkles!!
Beef Cabbage slow cooker

Fri - Sam's Family Birthday!!! Flourless Chocolate Ice Cream Cake!!!
Green Chili Chicken Stew

Sat - Eat out for Popop O'Brien/Grami Birthday

Sun - Curry Chicken w/ Veggie and brown rice

A Day at the Races

2010-09-14T19:22:00.006-06:00

Mom and Dad Cribley got AJ some wonderful gifts for his Birthday this year and gave them early so that we could show them off. We have extras for when anyone visits to go racing with us!!!!

Busy End to the summer

2010-09-06T16:10:00.012-06:00

Well we've managed to make a trip to Miami with family to visit family, get the outside of our house painted and finish glamorizing Sam's room!!! Now we just have to celebrate birthdays, finish getting the house ready for winter, and, oh ya, have a baby!!!!

Her are some highlight pictures....

The Best part of Camping.....

2010-08-15T15:56:00.005-06:00

...early morning coffee by the fire!!!!
Oh, and the spectacular scenery, stress free days, and pure relaxation.

Sammie kept very busy all weekend:)
We enjoyed the time with our friends, Sam and Thomas were constantly wanting to be together!!
We went on a 2 hour hike down the Colorado Trail...simply beautiful!

Forget the towering trees, colorful bugs, and tasty dirt....we want to play in the truck:)

Menu and to go Raw or not

2010-08-09T17:06:00.007-06:00

Raw milk was on my mind and I was seriously thinking of changing to a farm that a friend of mine uses. I still will most likely but it's going to have to wait a few months. Why? Because my mother saw a movie the other day that involved a woman losing her child to Listeria infection from raw milk. This lead to research into the risks while I'm pregnant. Well, there is nowhere out there with great central data but my bottom line at the moment is to wait until the baby is born to avoid what appears to be a slightly higher risk exposure to Listeria with raw milk. There you have it!!!!

As for food we have a ton of good veggies from the Grant Family CSA so here is our exciting menu including a camping trip at the end of the week.

Look at the beautiful Beets(red/white stripped), Zucchini, Kale, and herbs that Sam and I prepared for dinner tonight!!! All courtesy of Grant Family Farms:)

Mon - Chicken nuggets, sauted beets and Chard
making Kvass and Kimchi

Tues - Gnocchi w/ veggies and pesto

Wed - Lamb Burgers; Potato and Fennel on the grill

Thurs - Crock Pot Collards and turkey

Fri - Taco Salad

Sat - Buffalo Burgers; grilled veggies including zucchini, squash chard, pepper, onion

Sun - BLT; Baked Fries

Next week try
Crock pot cabbage rolls
Chard w/ Green Chili

2 great gifts and 3 things thursday

2010-08-05T20:26:00.004-06:00

Thank you Grandma and Grandpa Cribley for the wonderful presents, a high tech swing for the new baby and a Fun Pod for everyone!! The fun pod will be a chair for Sam, highchair for the baby, and a stand for all kids to help out in the kitchen or wherever. My mom made a great connection in the UK with the mom-inventor of this great product and had her ship it over!!! Check it out at Little Helper!!!

My sister has started a new weekly meme....or something to motivate blog writing and link back to learn more about others. It is a fun way to write Three Things Thursday and who knows maybe learn more about ourselves as well.

This week it is Three Things from childhood that make you who you are today!

1. As a new mom myself I learned through recent discussions about parenting that my mother made sure to enforce my dad being involved in my growing up. I must thank them both because I truly believe that it incited in my character the positive qualities of both, my passion and analytical rational.

2. At 13 I was becoming overwhelmed and so competitive that my parents made me choose between ice skating and horse showing. I took a month off from ice skating and loved the sleeping-in (skating was every 5 am) so much that I never looked back. I'm a great sleeper to this day and also seem to be very focused on my direction in life and lack any clutter in time or space. Thank you Mom and Dad.

3. The horse show decision led to a purchase of a fancy horse with my college investment. Not only did the investment pay off, I had a great time showing Willie, but I am very financially savvy and frugal.

Challenges to come

2010-07-22T18:12:00.006-06:00

I'm watching a couple of kids for some friends tonight...a 4 and 1 year old. I quickly learned a big challenge coming in the near future......

letting the toddler play with her toys while keeping the baby in check around the big kid toys.

Notice how tall the 1 year old appears!!

Gram G

2010-07-03T15:05:00.003-06:00

A Tribute to AJ's Gram Galluccio, Sammi's Great Grandma, mother of Gramsi Sandy:

AJ wrote these memories and read this at her memorial.

I confess that I have been selfish, I thought Gram G would be with us forever, that she would outlive us all. Gram G stood about 5 feet tall, but it was her heart that was larger than life. Speaking of her heart, after her bypass surgery the doctors said it would be good for approximately 10 yrs, that was 30 years ago. It was her brain that Alzheimers may have taken, but it never claimed her heart.

Things I remember about Gram G:
She was....
never in a bad mood
always smiling
never cussed or yelled at her mischievous grandsons, the worst she would say was that we were being FRESH!!!!
incredibly generous and money to her was not to spend for herself but so that she could see others smile

Her laugh always encouraged Tim and me to joke more. She had this picture of me from college graduation with the dean handing me the diploma and I have this huge smile. Gram G would reminisce about how happy I was at that moment. My response to her was "Gram, I was only smiling because I had fooled them!!" and Gram would laugh and say how proud she was. There was never a doubt of how proud she was of Tim or myself. I could have been a mass murderer and she probably would still say how proud she was! She was very easy to please and extremely patient. The way to her heart was as easy as York Peppermint Patties and Hot Tamales!

Final note to Gram:
You would be happy to know that your granddaughter Sam loves to dust all like you, and yes she settles me like you always tried.
You probably already know this but I'm still cussing and acting "Fresh," at times, but it is still an ongoing process. I hope that you and Aunt Lorraine can be advocates for Tim and I to the man in charge, or el Jefe, to consider lowering the bar for admission before we apply. You and Lorraine would always say when someone was being rude or brainless, "It's hard to be perfect like us!" You were right in soooo many ways.

Baby O'Brien

2010-06-27T19:42:00.004-06:00

20 weeks!!!

They grow up so fast

2010-06-25T06:51:00.006-06:00

We went to an outdoor History Museum in Littleton last week with our friends Hunter and Z. It is an old working farm with all the gardens and animals. Hunter and I got a little carried away with taking the following pictures....we just thought they are so cute. The dynamics of the day were much more typical for our fabulous 2 year olds than the pictures captured however. Sam ended up with booboos and learning to yell No at Z, and he had his first "going home early" experience after pushing Sam down a few times. They are such kids.

The adorable picture of them holding hands running behind the outhouse was followed by Z thinking he was out of sight and turning to shove Sam to the ground....it was the beginning. I'm sure that this is only the beginning of their flirtatious love-hate friendship!!

It must be LOVE:)

Germany and France

2010-06-23T19:35:00.005-06:00

Please visit our gallery(follow link) to see all of the pictures. The album is labeled Paris but includes our Germany pictures as well!!!

Daddy's weekend

2010-06-22T20:12:00.004-06:00

We spent this last weekend at the car show and car races....plenty of horse power to go around. But we had a blast and have the proof....

Sam in standing with Dad's Camaro in the show, next to our friend John's Camaro!!

The red car doing the burnout is our friend Chris's race car!!

Loving our CSA

2010-06-21T15:43:00.009-06:00

This last Friday marked the beginning of our CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) vegetable delivery. We are so excited to be a part of the Grant Family Farms. This time of year in Colorado produces nothing but beautiful GREEN leafy produce. So, we are experimenting with all the ways to have salad or cook our greens. We are enjoying the challenge and look forward to the other colors later in the season!!!!

Sam figured how to get her boots on all by herself!!!
She's a big help in the garden, especially with the water!!

This weeks CSA box will contain (we get it on Friday):
Spinach, cilantro, parsley, green leaf lettuce, red leaf lettuce.

Monday - Tabouli w/ fresh Parsley, green onions, and cucumber wrapped in Butter Lettuce

Tues - Creamed spinach over peppers and pasta

Wed - Strawberry Salad w/ Roasted Chicken

Thurs - Deer Roast on grill; Nutty Brown Rice Salad

Fri - BLack Bean Quesadillas

Sat - Tuna Melts w/ beautiful fresh salad

Sun - Tilapia tacos w/ black re fried beans

Big Girl

2010-06-21T08:41:00.002-06:00

One foot at a time, arms full of Babies, the little blonde curls bounced up the stairs. All clean and ready for sleepy night. Straight into the new Big Girl room that still needs fresh paint. Up into the Big Girl Bed......to dream all night of independence and Big Girl aspirations.

Where is my little baby girl? That's correct, she put herself to bed last night in a Big bed. Of course Dad did see her on the floor curled up this morning but she woke up and played until we came to get her as usual.

Filling AJ's shorts

2010-06-16T19:03:00.001-06:00

Sammi went swimming with Dad, Gramsi and Popop this last week when they were in town. This is a swim outfit that AJ wore when he was little.....too cute!!!

CSA starts later this week

2010-06-15T17:16:00.005-06:00

Tues - Saute mushrooms (b/c Dad is gone) w/ peppers and chicken; Cucumber tomato salad (b/c dad is gone)

Wed - ???

Thurs - Beef Ribs on the BBQ; corn on the cob; salad

Fri - Grilled chicken or Deer Roast; Organic artichokes (on sale!!) grilled

We get our CSA Friday afternoon so I will need to start building our menus on Friday/Saturday. Can't wait to see all the lovely local greens we get this week. I'm expecting a lot of spinach/salad/herbs so I got a book at the library with salad recipes!!!

Updates and Surprises

2010-06-08T09:03:00.004-06:00

Don't worry I'm not so pregnant brain that I forgot to post pictures.....I'm still waiting on pictures from Europe!!!!

Until then here is some other fun pictures and info:

We were sitting at breakfast one morning a few days after our trip and Samantha says: "Amie Dourney, Albert Dourney". Not sure what she meant AJ suggested Amie in Germany, Albert in Germany. Sam agreed and now if you ask her where Amie and Albert live she will say Germany. However, she is also saying "Dad (fill in other names) Dourney....so we think there is an alternate meaning but haven't figured it out yet....and ideas?

We have a GIRL for sure and she loves to accessorize with shoes, purses and necklaces!!! She loves to wear everyones shoes, apparently the fetish is inherited from her Great Grandmother Galloochio, as well as Great Grandma Platt. She also has learned well from Grandma and Gramsi on the finer points of shopping and loves to browse the shops......at least she can do it with them because everyone knows how much I love to shop, NOT!!

Her new cowboy boots!!

Here are some pics of our shoe modeling and Sam picked out this purse in Paris the first day....She carried around for 3 days, she wouldn't even let us help.

Dad's favorite picture in Paris!!

We enjoyed a fun weekend when my best friend Sharon surprised us with a quick 24 hour visit. Sam made a new great friend, so much so that she woke up on Monday asking for fun Sharon!!! Loved the visit girl:)

We also had our community garage sale and did great getting rid of some stuff this weekend. We even tried to get an offer on Sam.....$1 a day with return at night was the best we got, we turned it down:)

Busy week this week with Gramsi and Popop visiting as well as car races and volunteer time!!! Whew I'm tired just writing it!!!

Sun - Taco Salad

Mon - Pappardelle's Pasta w/ cucumber and tomatoes

Tues - Coconut Curry Chicken

Wed - Grilled Fontina and Honey Turkey Sandwiches; Carrots, Peppers, onions

Thurs - O'Brien Pizza

Fri - Deer Roast grilled; Corn on the grill; salad

Sat - Car race - Turkey Burgers, pasta salad, fruit

Sun - Bradley Group BBQ; taking an appetizer...don't know what yet:)

Goodbye to the Acura

2010-06-02T08:22:00.004-06:00

Well, our family is growing and so must our vehicles.......AJ sadly had to put his trusty Acura up for sale. It's such a great car that it sold on the first day to the first buyer for cash. The 3 other interested parties were very sad to get the call that it was already gone.

I was cheesy and made him take a nostalgic picture!!!

Little minds....

2010-05-31T15:07:00.002-06:00

Sam and I were in the grocery store today getting all the wonderful fruits and veggies for the week. She pointed and looked at a woman standing near us, luckily just far enough distance, and said.....NAKED, Sammi want naked. Well, the woman was wearing a tube top and Sam thought that her bare neck was naked and loves the idea of being naked so much that it inspired her to want to get naked.

So, I'm not sure whether to be proud or worried because she is either a nudist or a prude.

Back to some planning routine....

2010-05-31T11:34:00.004-06:00

Planning my menu is a way for me to really make the week easier and contribute to a family focus!!! I promise to write about our trip, I'm waiting on some pics from my sister, and I also have a great update about Sam with pictures...maybe tonight!!!

Monday - BBQ at the grandparents w/ friends; ride horses!!!

Tuesday - Venison Roast (tried on the grill); roasted peppers and onions; coconut rice

Wednesday - Pasta w/ Tomatoes and Cucumbers

Thursday - Grilled Pineapple Chicken Sandwiches; green salad

Friday - Chicken Apple Bratwurst; Mac and cheese; kale chips

Saturday - Refried Bean Burritos w/ the fixins

Sunday - Pizza ala AJ or leftovers

OUR TRIP TO EUROPE

2010-05-27T17:03:00.001-06:00

Coming soon....

Goldie

2010-04-25T09:00:00.005-06:00

We want to say Thank you to our wonderful cat Goldie for 19 fabulous years of friendship. She supported us through everything, informed Aj and I that we would be together forever, and tried to smother us in our sleep by cuddling a little too close. But we all loved her!!

Sam and Goldie had a close bond in their few years together...Sam loved to torture the cat, and the cat just wanted attention of any kind.....it was a great match:) But in the end they made a great pair.

Everyone had their own special connection from smothering cuddles to playful hisses. The day I moved from Texas Goldie hid in AJ's computer desk and delayed our drive to Colorado by at least 3 hours. She did not want AJ and I to split....she knew:)

Some catching up to do...

2010-04-25T08:28:00.009-06:00

Well, I can use the excuse of a busy life or I can just admit that I haven't been motivated to sit down and update our site. So, I'm going to have a long post with lost of pictures to enjoy!!!

We had a fun day with the Castaldi's. The kids (Bob, AJ, Caroline, and Sam) played outside in the back yard. We all had a blast decorating cookies and then ate a wonderful dinner!!!

Test day at the track!! Dad and the Camaro dialed in the time.
All the grandparents got to come!!!

It's spring time and there are lots of babies being born. Plus some new arrivals to await:)

We visited a clients 5 hour old foal.

This is the first picture of O'Brien Numero Dos!!

1.5 years

2010-04-03T09:03:00.002-06:00

It will never cease to amaze me how life can be somewhere in the range of 80-90 years long...yet so much growing and learning is done in the first few.

Sam had her 1.5 year checkup yesterday with our favorite Dr. Stage. She did wonderfully and held her own against his grueling development games....he made her stack blocks, point to her nose, and throw a ball.....not so hard for the advancing little toddler!!! That silly Dr. can't outsmart our Sammie.

She did test the levels of physically fit as she made the nurse weight her twice....why you ask....because she is in the negative % of weight.....that's correct, she doesn't even register on some silly national chart.....or as the Dr said.....we are setting her up for the best physique later in life!!!! Yeah for our genetics and healthy lifestyle!!!

I also wish to mention that AJ and I also love Dr. Stage for his knowledge, understanding, and respect for us as parents. He didn't even suggest that we do the MMR vaccine yet because he knows that we want to wait on those live vaccines. It was a relief to not have to feel pressured or decide again what we wanted to choose. So, thank you to Dr. Stage.

Sam has something to say...

2010-03-19T09:24:00.004-06:00

Snow Days and Spring Time

2010-03-19T09:13:00.003-06:00

It gets so confusing in March going from 60 degree days to 6" snow blizzards. But in the end it makes for interesting entertaining days.....

Mom and Sam spent this snowy Sunday in the house all day and came up with lots of fun things to do...

NICE HAIR!!!
Dad is excited for Spring Car Race Season.....getting the trailer ready
St Patrick's Day outfit seemed appropriate.....Thanks to the gang from Florida for the poncho, I'm pretty sure it was Uncle Carl, Aunt Kathleen, and the girls that gave Sam this
Bit-o-Irish Luck!!!

Fun times

2010-03-10T15:12:00.006-07:00

Look I'm a Cocoon...
Sam went to the Butterfly Museum with Gramsi and Grandma!!!

SAFE!!!

Sam doesn't need to get this messy any more because she is successfully using a spoon!!! We even practice both hands:)

Sam LOVES the guitar at Ms. Sonya's music class. Daddy loved the class so much that he wants to go on his own.

They learn such high technology at such a young age.

Riding Nitro with Mommy....we even chased a cow!!! She enjoyed riding so much that we are going to get her a helmet so she can stay on longer.

Menu website links

2010-03-07T16:47:00.007-07:00

As usual I have managed to put together something at the last minute, but thank goodness because it makes life so much easier!!!! Check out other menu plans at Menu Monday.

By the way.....soaking, dehydrating, and roasting (some) nuts was awesome last week. It made lots of available snacks for everyone. Freshly roasted is the way to go!!!! If you are interested in knowing more about soaking check out sites such as Cheeseslave and GNOWFGLINS just to get you started.

I got my Kefir cultures the other day and that will be my next project on a semi-slow week!!!

Sun
Leftovers

Mon -
Potato Leek Soup w/ Baked Potato (mom is craving)

Tues - Asian influence
Salmon, Butternut squash Brown Rice

Wed Lunch - Master Gardner Potluck - Meatballs
Dinner
Meatballs w/ tomato sauce, Roasted Asparagus

Thurs - Mexican
Black Bean Burritos on soaked homemade tortillas (a third attempt)

Fri - Whole poultry
Deer Roast in the crockpot w/ Red Potatoes, Peppers, Carrots, etc

Sat -
Maybe Cream Jalapeno Soup at Rock Yard Brewery??? Or something around here

Sun - Soup
Split Mun Bean

Soaking Nuts

2010-02-28T10:13:00.012-07:00

So I've tried a few new things this week, some for the better, some need to get better!!!! Made some soaked Wheat Tortillas.....too wet and very thick and bready. I think I'm going to ask my mom to help me using her recipe, plus maybe I can use her tortilla maker:) I've also ordered some milk and water Kefir cultures and hope to get those started soon for some new healthy drink alternatives. Along with the cultures is coming a device to help me ferment veggies later this summer, I can't take that on yet, too much going already. Too much going on like soaking and roasting nuts for AJ's and our snacks!!!! I'm so excited to try different spices and mix in some wonderful DARK chocolate that we found at the super market (even trade free)!!!!!

Here is our menu plan this week. Check out others at Menu Plan Mondays.

Sun
Chicken Apple Sausages; Roasted Butternut Squash

Mon - Frary's over for dinner
Puerto Rican Chicken; Yam fries; Roasted Broccoli and peppers

Tues - Asian influence
Curry Chicken over rice; cabbage, cucumber, carrot salad

Wed
Moossaka

Thurs - Mexican
Turkey; Artichokes

Fri - Whole poultry
Posole

Sat - Richert's for dinner
Sushi night

Sun - Soup
Pea and Red Lentil

As We Grow

2010-02-25T09:57:00.004-07:00

The amount of time and effort that new parents are capable of putting toward the development and well being of their child(ren) is astounding and wonderful. If only these actions continued through our entire existence with regards to ourselves......oh wait, it can!!! It is important to remember that we are held accountable to Yahweh as well as our family and friends and last to society. While it is easy to get caught up into the lobbies going on in society it is of much deeper immediate importance that we begin with ourselves. It is not possible for us to teach our children when we don't consciously make improvements in our actions and behaviors. Yeshua lead by example and we don't really look to him that often as a 'man' but too much as a savior. Our daily actions and interactions reflect our loving relationship with Abba.

I had an exhilarating emotional release this past week as I was lead by God to talk about my feelings with a family member. We ended up discussing how it is difficult but necessary to struggle through hard conversations and experiences in order to build a deeper stronger relationship. Often friendships never push through these struggles because we don't see the value vs. the risk. However, maybe we should push to persecute ourselves more in order to be better neighbors, to say to everyone around us that they are worth it.

I am working to be more proactive and conscious about my actions to enable better more loving relationships with every person I touch. AJ and I are proposing that our family, whomever that may include, makes a Mission Statement to help guide everyone down an ever changing, ever growing path of love and relationships. I will tell a little more about this Mission Statement when I write a book review of "7 Habits of Highly Effective Families." Please know that AJ and I are striving to grow and establish ourselves with our family. It is in His love that we wish to aspire.

New Menu with no processed food

2010-02-20T12:31:00.012-07:00

Busy week around here with lots of mouths to feed. This makes it very important to menu plan for so many reasons. We should have a good food week though, I found some fun new ideas. Check out other menu plans at Menu Plan Monday

Sun
Grass Fed Beef Tacos w/ fresh guacamole; attempted homemade tortillas......note to self try these next time

Mon
Asian salad w/ red tip lettece, cabbage, red peppers, carrots, cucumbers, walnuts, sunflower seeds, yogurt coated chicken, dressing

Tues
Chicken, Black bean, Sweet Potato slow cooker

Wed
Salmon, Artichokes, Quinoa

Thurs - Mexican
Wet Burrito

Fri - Whole poultry
Chicken,

Sat
Puerto Rican Chicken, Leftovers

Sun - Soup
Butternut Squash

Kale Chips - these are SOOOOOO YUMMY!!!
congee
crock pot oats

Play is always learning...

2010-02-10T11:18:00.005-07:00

Imitation is not only a form of flattery but a huge education. A child's play is their process for growing and learning about our actions and behavior. If nothing else we should be kind and loving to everyone for their sake. It is also so important for us to notice every little move they make to best assist their play. AJ and I had the best entertainment the other day at lunch when Sam turned her orange slice into a car, as noted by the driving motion and vroom sounds. She thought it was hilarious when the car dove off the cliff (or table in this case).

On another note:
I made tuna salad w/ fennel seeds, sauteed spinach, and cheese slices for dinner last night, it was delicious. I purchased some Coconut oil the other day to incorporate as a cooking oil. It worked especially well for the spinach with a little butter and salt. The best part was how evenly it cooked in the pan and I didn't have to work as hard to keep the spinach from being too hot or cold. Plus it is VERY healthy!!!!

Blah...Blah....Blah....or Chinese if you prefer

2010-02-06T10:36:00.003-07:00

Sam has numerous words that she says clearly and then can babble on in a form of Chinese sounding phrases, mainly pretending to be on a phone. (It is always revealing what our children show us about our behaviors, talk much on the phone?)

My mom pointed out that Sam said her first 'sentence' a couple of days ago......well, we think it is a sentence...

Puppy Outside

This is our first indication that Grandpa is not going to be able to feed the animals, horses cats and chickens, outside anymore without a helper. So, last night we went over to Grandma and Grandpa Cribleys to swim...this led to an invite for Lamb, Artichokes, and Scalloped Potatoes YUM!!!
As it started to get dark Sam began to yell at the back door.....OUTSIDE, SIDE. Grandpa wasn't even home yet from a work call and it is IMPOSSIBLE to tell a 16 month old to wait. She just didn't understand so we did everything we could to distract her. Needless to say as soon as Grandpa got home she was ready with her shoes and coat. Unfortunately for Grandpa, or fortunately, he will never need to do the chores alone as long as Sam is around. Outside they went...She came back grinning, covered in hay, smelling like a horse, and with frozen hands. And yet she kept insisting to go outside, and saying 'cold'. So, Grandpa obliged again, secretly loving the attention and connection, and had Samantha assist with grilling the Lamb......OUTSIDE:)

It is such a blessing to have such wonderful experiences for our family to explore.

Good Nutrients

2010-01-26T19:34:00.003-07:00

I spent all day today learning about the nutrients in our soil. How to adjust them organically, how to best take advantage, how you can have too much or too little. If you can't tell I'm thoroughly enjoying my Master Gardner program and can't wait to put it in to practice.

While at class today little Sam was broadening her horizons with the Gurley family. Our family loves them so much and is blessed that they could help out today. I know that Sam had a wonderful time and was glad to see that Brie didn't seem TOO tired this evening when we hung out for a while at the library. THANK YOU Gurley family for being there for us:)

I also was preparing a wholesome dinner in the midst of all the other duties. A whole grass-red chicken was roasting in the slow-cooker*. I took the recipe off the calendar I picked up from Natural Grocers and wow is it good. So juicy and flavorful and nice to be done when we got home at dinner time. I whipped up some peas, carrots, and avocado and the feast ensued. Sam ate it all up, or at least all that didn't end up on the floor for Sadie. Now I'm making some stock to use for later, plus it makes the house smell amazing.

It has been really rewarding as a SAHM (stay at home mom) to learn and evolve the methods we use as a family to keep ourselves healthy. Our nutrient levels start in the dirt and work there way through a cycle to be used by us and returned back to the soil. It warms my heart, and stomach, to feed my family with a chicken stock made with love and bone marrow just like Yahweh intended.

Thank you to Yahweh for making it all, thank you to the people around me who educate, and thank you to my family for embracing the ideas and most of all embracing me:)

*A few side notes:
-I'm getting a new slow cooker because the Rival brand has lead in them. The Hamilton Beach brand does not have lead or Cadmium.
-I put a few aluminum balls under the chicken to keep it out of the liquid, and I cooked the bird breast down. This made it especially juicy!!

Menu Plan

2010-01-24T14:47:00.006-07:00

A few dishes in the crock put this week to help with the busy days. Plus, I purchased a reptile heating pad to culture my yogurt.....it should keep the temperature warm enough to thicken even in this cold Colorado weather. May try to find a day to make some bread/muffins as well. However, I have found that with less bread in the house it forces us to find other things to eat.....sometimes it feels like we can't find anything:)

Check out other menu plans at Orgjunkie

Mon - Fish, spaghetti squash, rice

Tues - Whole Chicken with turnips, carrot cucumber salad

Wed - Dinner at Gurley's......Meatloaf, Sweet Potato Fries

Thurs - Turkey Veggie Pot Pie

Fri - Potato Curry Bisque

Sat - Green Chicken Chili Stew

Sun - Deer Roast, Quinoa tabbouleh, Roasted Brussel Sprouts

He Loves Me

2010-01-15T08:32:00.006-07:00

AJ and I have read or are reading a few books lately that inspire love. Now, it sounds cliche and cheesy but just hear me out. I'm beginning to see that love is actually the most difficult piece in any relationship to trust completely and believe wholeheartedly.

The books are not about a spouses love but about God's love. Mainly about how we try to build and manipulate His unconditional love to complete us. By deciding for ourselves what it means to be "God like" or following rules made by man, even with good intentions, we can only hope and never succeed in finding peace with Him. It is only through ultimate TRUST and LOVE that He will show us how to complete our life to find peace.

I realized that it was not a coincidence that He puts himself in the parent position. We all have said and claim to understand that He is our Father just like we are to our children. However, at least for me, I have never had the childish trust for Him as an adult that I should. Like when my daughter dives off her changing table after putting her PJ's on, knowing that we are there to catch her. She doesn't stop to think what is best for her outcome or what steps she needs to follow like understanding gravity, she just leaps. I want to leap for God and mimic His every word like my child does with me.

Parenting is about cultivating relationships. The hardest part is to keep that your focus. We need to grow the deepest most loving relationships with the Lord, our spouse, and each child. It takes a lot of time, and often concentration to even begin those bonds. It is easy to get caught in the busy work.

The books we read are The Shack, He Loves Me, and So You Don't Want To Go To Church Anymore. Please check out this new book, Steady Days: A Journey Toward Intentional Professional Motherhood, that I hope may also connect the ideas of purposely building a relationship within your family.

Visit to Albuquerque

2010-01-14T08:24:00.005-07:00

We had a wonderful time and great weather visiting all of the O'Brien clan and friends in Albuquerque. The trip was so much fun that we are thinking of flying down this Friday night only to enjoy in Tim's Tagine (For those that don't know that is Moroccan cuisine), but we'll see!!!

Here are some of the great pictures the gramsi-arrazzi and popop-arrazzi took:)

We visited the Children's Science Museum!!

One of the parks we played at had a little zip line.
AJ and I had fun trying to attack each other.
Even Gramsi did the zip line!!!!

Sam's favorite play time was taking out and putting back some rocks with Popop.

For The Love of Shoes

2009-12-28T11:57:00.004-07:00

Sam is beginning to get herself dressed. No, not shirts, pants, dresses.....SHOES. Yes, we have an obsession with the diversity that goes on our feet. Today she chose the following to go out in the snow!!!

* She got her boot on all completely by herself. Notice it is the left boot on the right foot, typical kid!!!

Happy...

2009-12-27T14:30:00.006-07:00

Written Friday:
So, we haven't left our home in 3 days because AJ and I have some sort of stomach virus. Let's just say that we can't wander far from home.

Hope you all are having a wonderful holiday!!!! We did at least get out and take Sam sledding yesterday......she loved it. she is a speed demon.....the faster we sent her down the hill, the more she laughed.

As of Sunday:
We are all feeling more like ourselves today, finally. We managed to get out today to run some errands, go to church, and are now watching the Broncos. We were definitely looking forward to going up to the mountains, thank to the Gurleys offering their place. However, we enjoyed quality family time no matter the location. We really did have a wonderful 5 days together and managed a little fun along the way.

Thank you to AJ for the nice times despite feeling so miserable. Thank you to Sam for being her always joyous self with lots of smiles and laughs!!!

It's such a HARD life being pulled around on a sled:)

Grandpa Cribley and the dogs had fun too!!!

Sam helped me shovel one day when it was windy and cold.
She really braved and enjoyed the cold....definitely a Colorado baby.

It's a good thing that Menu Plan Monday keeps me in line because I am not motivated this week!!!

Mon - Artichoke and pasta

Tues - Crock Pot Chicken with Black Beans & Cream Cheese

Wed - Egg, Corned Beef Hash, Peppers

Thurs - Moussaka

Fri - Enchiladas

Sat - Quinoa w/ chicken, garbanzo beans, veggies

Sun - Veggie Burgers, sweet potato fries, salad

Mon - Tuna Melts; cucumber/carrot salad

Routine

2009-12-18T09:35:00.002-07:00

Well, I finally added something to my day that I've been meaning to do for a while and it feels WONDERFUL!!!! As soon as Sam went down for her morning nap I jumped into some workout cloths and pushed my body and mind through yoga. *My legs are a little shaky*

I've been wanting to get back to yoga and more walking/running but it is so easy to get 'too busy.' I knew, and had even discussed with friends, that all that was needed was to add it into a routine. If you get yourself into a habit then the excuses fade away. Now, I just have to really keep the routine up.....I know it makes me feel wonderful so it shouldn't be too hard, right?

Family Time

2009-12-13T19:20:00.003-07:00

Family dinner a la Dad!!
(notice someone can't wait to have Dad's pizza)

Having Fun Making Pizza

Grandma's 60th Birthday TeaSam especially loved the Devonshire CreamBest seat in the house...

Menu for the week

2009-12-13T13:36:00.001-07:00

It is so wonderful to have meals planned because it really takes some daily stress away. I especially love getting new ideas over at Menu Plan Mondays.

I have accomplished a lot of new adventures in the last couple of days. I baked from freshly ground wheat berries and I made my own chicken stock from the carcass. It smelled so wonderful as it simmered all night!!! It sounds especially good as I'm getting over some illness.

Sun - AJ's Deep Dish Pizza

Mon - Brown-Rice-and-Black-Bean-Casserole

Tues - Shepherd's Pie

Wed - Artichoke, leftovers

Thurs - Southwest Chili, cornbread

Fri - Dinner w/ Gurley Family!!!

Sat - Tuna Melts on homemade bread; roasted veggies

Sick day...

2009-12-11T12:15:00.003-07:00

Thank goodness for wonderful Daddy's!!!!

AJ has spent all day taking care of Sam and Mom because I am VERY under the weather. I am disappointed because we had a friend Zane's 2nd Birthday party and friends coming over for dinner.

So, I put a chicken in the crock pot and finally got to baking. I'm looking forward to the fresh chicken broth to help get rid of this sickness in our house!!! Plus, I GROUND MY OWN WHEAT finally and made some wonderful Blueberry Muffins!! Thanks mom for giving me the grinder.

Butterfly Kisses

2009-12-08T09:06:00.004-07:00

Dad(or Grandpa as he prefers these days) and I had a date Sunday night filled with enough memories to last the whole year through. Bob Carlyle, a musical artist who wrote and sings 'Butterfly Kisses,' presented a free concert at a church here in town. I called to get tickets a week ago but they were all gone. Well Sunday came and the weather has been extremely cold and constantly snowing. I thought just maybe some seats would open up, so I called Dad and said, "Do you want to just show up and see if we can get in?" Of course he jumped at the occasion, 'cause you see, I was one of the many who was blessed and surprised to hear "Butterfly Kisses" as a gift when my daddy walked me down the hillside to 'give me away' to AJ. The show was wonderfully performed and entertaining but the company is what warmed the night and filled my heart with love.
Love you Dad

Last night we had the Autumn Soup that I've been planning to make for a few weeks and just haven't had the correct day. Well, at 10 degrees last night it was the BEST night, and a great soup!!! It was hardy, yummy, filling, and VERY good for us with lots of veggies. I highly recommend it. I found it and many other recipes at Menu Plan Monday, check it out.

A big goal this week is to grind my own grain, and make lots of different breads with my bread mixer. Wish me luck!!

Monday - Local Chicken Feta Sausages, Acorn Squash w apples

Tuesday - AJ's Turkey Chili, homemade corn bread

Wednesday - Chicken, Mushroom, and Rice bake, Artichoke

Thursday - Leftovers

Friday - Grandma's 60th Birthday Fondue

Saturday - Dinner w/ Castaldi Family don't know where or what yet!!!

Sunday - Pasta w/ sauce from the freezer, salad, homemade bread

A Story in Pictures...

2009-12-03T08:09:00.004-07:00

Our Thanksgiving...

Table setting for 18

Our blessed Thanksgiving Family
The O'Briens
Bill, Sandy, Aj, Kelli, Sam, Tim, Amanda
The Cribleys
Steve, Michele, Eric Jorgenson
The Gurleys
Rick, Debbie, Jud, Brie, Laina, Maddie, Adon, Moriah

Spending quality time together

Uncle Tim brought a Nurf hoop for the guys to play

Sam got to shoot a few hoops when the guys were too tired!!

Deep Fried Turkey...need I say more:)

Sushi lunch for Amanda's Birthday (Glad you came up despite getting sick!!)

Sam ate so much Cranberry sauce she had an upset tummy the next morning.

All the O'Brien's came up for the occasion, my bestest Gramsi!!
(sweater and hat courtesy of Grandma Cribley)

Relationships

2009-11-27T13:47:00.002-07:00

I just read a wonderful book, on AJ's recommendation, called "The Shack." It is amazing how the Lord can help to provide something that you really need to read in order to bring home something realistic in your current events. It is of most importance that we live in the present. While a lot was emphasized to AJ and I in this book and it touched us, there were certain things that took us back to His Word to help us grow. One thing that was interesting to me was to talk about it with a friend and see the different mind sets of people and how we read what we want to read and how this book, like the Bible, has so many different levels that most people don't even touch in exploration. Like His word, our relationships are multifaceted and complex, but they don't have to be, they can just be about Love.

Yesterday AJ and I hosted a fabulously chaotic Thanskgiving Day. Our family all came over, consisting of 13 adults and 5 children, we are truly blessed by everyone. We were missing Amanda sadly. She drove all the way up here from Albuquerque to spend her day sick in the hotel. She did get some of the chow, after Gravy ate the first plate we made her!!! We also were missing Amie and Albert all non-thanksgiving over in Germany, but we all talked with them over Skype!!! Hope you are feeling better Albert. The rest of our hectic crowd had an exhausting but loving time. If someone was hungry it was their own fault, between the Turkey deep fried by Grandpa Cribley and the Roast masterfully prepared by Poppop O'Brien(and Tim), plus all the extras from the Gurley, O'Brien, Cribley women:)

Most importantly it was a joyous day of just spending time together allowing our blessed relationships to meld together. We really do need to let go to the Lord and be thankful to Him especially for the special people we hold dear to our hearts, mainly Him.

Thankful menu

2009-11-23T14:46:00.007-07:00

I was getting a little board with our menus and some weeks it is tiring to search for new ideas. So.......
I went to our mommy play group (and yes it's a double entendre because the kids play, and the mommy's play as well!!) and suggested that we each provide 1 recipe each week. This give 5 recipes out of seven days without having to work hard. We all enjoy healthy eating habits and I believe enjoy new ideas. So far it's working wonderful!!!

Mon - Yummy & Easy Burritos (mommy recipe)

Tues - Autumn Cabbage Soup, homemade tortillas

Wed - Family cocktail party at the Cribley residence

Thanksgiving -
we decided to go big today by inviting 4 families to our house!!! There will be the most rewarding chaos with 13 adults and 5 children running around giving Thanks to our FATHER!!!!

breakfast - Egg and veggie quiche, O'Brien Hash Brown Casserole

Eat Too Much Meal -

Deep Fried Turkey
Slow Grilled Beef
Gravy
Rolls
Corn Bread Pudding
Cranberry Chutney
Green Bean casserole (Tempura Onions)
Spinach Turkey Bacon Casserole
Roasted Veggies (squash, onions, carrots, etc)
Autumn Salad
Sweet potato dish
Mashed Potatoes
Fruit Pies (made by Tim the pastry chef!!!), ice cream, whipped cream

Fri - John Elway's Hamburger Soup w/ a slow cooker twist (mommy recipe) or leftovers:)

Sat - Pinapple BBQ Chicken w/ Quinoa

Sun - Leftovers, of which I'm sure we will have plenty!!!!

Check out other lovely thankful meals at Menu Plan Monday

Sleep

2009-11-22T07:39:00.003-07:00

I must have been dreaming about sleep because it was on my mind when I woke up. It has been coming up in random places lately and I was realizing how blessed we are that it isn't a focus of discussion around Samantha any more. She is turning into a little one that can sleep anywhere and loves to go to bed at night.

I bought AJ this new song that he discovered makes him think of Sam, it's Fireflies by Owl City. One DJ described it as Strawberry Bubblegum in audio form, and it truly works. It is very young sounding and has great rhythm and sounds, Sam loves it too. Anyway, it talks about sleep and how we should dream so big that we never want to wake.

In the other direction my friend Jill has been awake so much lately that she, the fabulous mother of 2, actually asked me for sleep advice for her youngest little Katie. I told her that it gave me a good laugh that she was coming to ME for advice. However, this morning I was really reflecting on the blessings that have occurred over the last year, many of which involve night feedings. I feel so pleased that we chose to really listen to ourselves and most of all Sam to decide what she needed. I can never replace those times when she needed me and I was ALWAYS there, graciously enjoying the sacrifice of my own sleep. YES that is right enjoying a lack of sleep because it was for my daughter. I especially look back with fondness now that she is a great sleeper.

Little moments

2009-11-12T08:45:00.004-07:00

As I rest my elbows on the dryer a busy mind is absorbing it's surroundings. Time moves slowly as a pea sized object is moved from a noisy hard surface to plush quietness. Oh wait, here is another object, silence is it's objective. Where do I place them, what is my need, how am I to interact with my environment?

A friend of mine just the other day wrote about how the smallest advancements in his young daughters life bring such joy to his day.....only he realized that when put into words it is so boring without the emotion, especially if you aren't a new parent yourself. Well, I see and feel everything you are experiencing Adam, it's AMAZING!!!

Here are some pictures from this fall....First trip to the zoo with the Gurleys

Grandpa and Sam completed their first 5k walk for diabetes!!

More Pictures....

2009-11-10T14:56:00.002-07:00

We made it to Puerto Vallarta

2009-11-10T14:31:00.004-07:00

Well, we took a chance and WON!!!! We headed to the airport hoping to go to Mexico standby with Zero seats available. There was a back-up plan to visit San Diego if necessary, but somehow 4 people didn't show up to fly to Puerto Vallarta and WE MADE IT!!!!

We had no idea where we would stay, what we would do, or if we could get back. In the end our resort was perfect, we relaxed the entire time (except for the 5 hour hike AJ and I took in the jungle), and made it back rested. We took lots of pictures so I'll let them tell the story.

MEnu plan; back with a vengeance

2009-11-08T15:45:00.006-07:00

It has been forever since I planned a menu in writing. We are starting to make one meal for little Sam (13 months now, can you believe it) and us, and we all eat together. We had a wonderful time last night as we all prepared the meal - dad did is part to carve the chicken, Sam and I made the veggies and pasta on the stove as she hung out in her sling. I think that she really enjoyed the meal better having helped to prepare it. She especially loved the spinach, lima bean, corn mixture that we made up with goats milk and some cheese and spices. She had 3 helpings!!!

I love to get ideas for menus over at Org Junkie.

Mon - Chicken Fried Rice; Cabbage casserole

Tues - Bakes Huevos

Wed - spaghetti and meatballs; salad

Thurs - Tuna w/ Apple lettuce wraps; potato wedges

Fri - Leftovers

Sat - Poor Man's Pierogies

Found a new website that I enjoyed for food:

gluten free mommy

Mexico here we come...hopefully....

2009-11-02T21:36:00.002-07:00

We'll see everyone in a week....we may be in Mexico....or we may be in San Diego.....either way we are headed somewhere for a little vacation!!!

Shout out to Amie and Albert in Germany....having their own adventures:)

2009-10-28T14:41:00.003-06:00

Next year is a big year....

2009-10-28T14:03:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday AJ/Daddy!!!! We love you soooooo much (insert Samantha's arms stretched wide).

Last month we gave Dad his present and thank goodness we did because we are in the middle of a winter storm. Below are the pictures of Dad's new toy to keep the Red Dragon well protected. We got to enjoy it one weekend at the race track!!
Dad coming home to the surprise. Amie and I drove to New Mexico and back in one shot to have it home when AJ got home from a trip....he had NO idea:)

New Inspiration

2009-10-11T13:47:00.005-06:00

I have an amazing husband. I feel so grounded in him at this point in my life. It seems that it would be a tumultuous time as our little one evolves into a toddler, our careers are unfolding, and the seasons in general are in full motion. He remains my Foundation. There have been many discussions, among ourselves and our families, as of late regarding plans for the future and the needs and desires to provide the best for our own growing family. The topics have been fruitfull, revealing, and mostly loving. We are great-full for the leadership that we have in our parents.

One important subject that we need to complete our actions is a Will, Living Will, and Child Custody papers. An insightful conversation and very important talk was shared between ALL of the grandparents and ourselves. It is not only important for legal purposes but I believe helps to connect us all in our personal times of life. We all shared what our wishes are with regards to the care of Samantha and of ourselves. How we want to be treating in death always reveals a lot of how we wish to be respected in life. Thank you to my strong husband for his leadership and departure into that discussion.

Anther avenue that AJ and I have felt some further need is in the exploration of our faith. While a Rock in so many ways this is an area that AJ (and I don't know if he feels this way, it is my observations) is still young and unguided. We know that our beginnings of faith in God are rooted in the same principles but our knowledge and understanding are not at the same place. It is important to both of us that it is a piece or OUR lives as one and that there is something there to concretely explain to Sam, at the same time an organic belief that matures with us in appreciation of the Lord. Part of examining this area of life has led us to attend some church services here in town. We found a place, through an old coworker of mine, that is bible verse led.....they actually read through each verse. The start of this church is based from an old surfer, which of course appeals to AJ. While this is a little bit of a struggle for me, it is inspirational to AJ and that makes my heart sing. We may not agree with everything that is said and done, but it is providing an arrow in the direction of our Lord for AJ. For myself it is exposure to His word and a constant reminder to keep my mind and heart open, only my thoughts can become toxic if I allow them, the Lord will speak directly to and through me as He wishes. This relationship will be organic, just like our entire path with God should be, constantly fructifying.

We made it 1 year....

2009-10-08T09:52:00.007-06:00

I know I've been the worst at keeping up with the blog in the last month, ok maybe month and 1/2....it's had work chasing around a toddler. You read correctly, we made it 1 year!!!! I can't believe what an amazing year it has been as AJ and I watched Samantha turn into the beautiful toddler and sassy girl that she has become. It is nothing of course compared to the changes that we have seen in ourselves and our relationship, all for the best. So, without further adieu some photo-memories....

*check out the video my sister did of her pics over the last year. iamalive

September 23rd

"So Big"
Sam loved the New York Cheese Cake Grandma Cribley made

"Baoon"
The most adorable word she says, ALL THE TIME!!

Birthday picnic for the Bradley Gang...we can't believe we've stayed a group for 1 year

Hiking with Aunt Amie and Uncle Albert one last time before they left for Germany....miss you!

Dad had to go to Dallas for some gun training so Sam and I went to visit the girls. We stayed with Sharon and Libby came up from Houston. It was a fabulous time!!

We went camping with our friends John, Leah, and Thomas after the Bradley picnic. It was so much fun and we look forward to all the trips next summer.

Catching up with a busy end to summer

2009-08-25T09:10:00.004-06:00

Well, I have been too busy and too unmotivated to update the blog lately. We really have been busy every week. Plus I have to have some creative juices flowing before I have the desire to sit down and write. So, her are some blurbs about the past few weeks events. There are more to come in the future weeks so look for more pics and stories.

We went camping for 2 night back on the 11th of August. It turned out to be a relaxing down time, but it didn't start out that way. It was a test for A and I for sure. It began rocky with me having to work the day we left and I worked ALL day. This meant to we had to hurry and pack and set up camp as it was getting dark. A and I spent most of the first day and 1/2 not really talking about anything but the necessary. We first camped at Golden State Park which is a very beautiful location but it was completely full and the sites are LITERALLY 10 ft apart. It wasn't really our idea of camping. So, we got there late and left really early (also partially because in our hurry to pack we didn't bring matches and therefore couldn't make coffee, AHHHH). Well, as we headed home we pulled our heads out of our *****(you know whats) and decided to start over. So, we headed up our favorite canyon, 285, and offroaded below Kenosha Pass to a beautiful, isolated, quiet site. A even had to drive through a good size creek to get back as far as we wanted. The next 24 hours were so relaxing and allowed us the unwind. We definitely came out better in the end!!! Sorry for no pics, our camera batteries are having problems so we are looking into getting a new camera.

I have a video of the following update but don't have the wire to transfer my videos onto the computer. I'll work on getting that and put up all of our videos......
Sam learned to climb DOWN the stairs all on her own. We were watching her climb up the stairs one afternoon and all of a sudden her right foot was feeling behind her and she slid down as soon as it hit the edge of the stair. We screamed with excitement and she spent the next few minutes going up and down the stairs. She was so proud of herself. Now she has even figured out (as of today) how to turn around at the top stair to get started. This makes me feel better about the safety around stairs, plus I'm sure it is great use of her sponge of a mind.

Early last week we spent a few days with a low grade fever.......and the winner is her TOP LEFT TOOTH!!!! It finally popped out. The good news, she made if through the rough times with a fever, taking her meds(yuck), and not wanting to eat well because the meds taste so gross. The bad news, now she grinds her teeth and make the most hideous sound.

We went and had a wonderful evening at Rio Grande, home to the 1 Margarita limit, you can guess why. We took this adventure with our friends the Castaldi's. Bob, Colleen, and Caroline were the perfect company for the evening out. Here are some pics.....

Dad home all week; camping fun; good fresh food

2009-08-10T07:11:00.001-06:00

Sun - Rotisserie Chicken; Crashed Potatoes; Corn on the cob

Mon - Fish; green beans from the market; rice

Camping!!!
Tues - Taco Salad

Wed - Eastern Chicken Sandwich; pasta salad

Thurs - BLA (Turkey bacon, lettuce, avacado); Summer squash Gratin

Fri - Tai pasta w/ Peanut Sauce; cucumber and carrot salad

Sat - Something w/ the Castaldi family....Pizza or happy hour at Rio's!!!

Just mom and Sam.......
Sun - Zesty Vegetable Enchiladas

Check out other menus at Organized Junkie

Vote

2009-08-04T20:44:00.005-06:00

Hey, check out my sister with another photo contest. She WON the last one using a picture she took of Samantha. This time a very nice grasshopper posed for her. Vote for #6 at Cat's Corner in the left side panel.

Our family had the pleasure of hanging out with some nice friends, the Iserts, on their boat Sunday. It was Sam's first boat ride and we had so much fun that we ended up hanging out on Chatfield lake for 7 hours straight. For those of you who don't know the 'lakes' in Colorado are really just small reservoir ponds. We hung out for a while then went tubing and wake boarding and the time just flew(no pun intended since Tim and AJ are both pilots). Sam was the best baby every and enjoyed herself all day. She didn't really like the life vest but the Margaritas helped ease her pain. Here are some pics from the day...

Menu's for the week

2009-08-03T08:03:00.005-06:00

monday - homemade Mexican Pasta from the freezer; sauteed Market green beans

Tuesday - Red Beans and Rice; cucumbers from the garden

Wednesday - Easy Pasta because we will have been at the horse show ALL day!!!

Thursday - Quinoa w/ garden veggies

Friday - Zesty Vegetable Enchiladas

Saturday - Grilled Venison (hopefully Sadie the dog doesn't help herself to our Venison this time); Crash Hot Potatoes from the market; Grilled Corn

Sunday - Maybe eat out because we have the car show today and I'm tired of planning!!!!

Check out other meal plans this week at a guest host, The Happy Housewife.

New Theory on young babies and moods

2009-08-01T14:08:00.004-06:00

Excuse me while a do a little mommy talking, so all of you not interested in the baby thing just come back another day. I have noticed that Sam grew about 2" taller in the last week. I swear she just needs to stop because it's all happening too fast. However, in observing this growth spurt it allowed me to really do some thinking.

Everyone always says things like "new teeth are coming in....that's why we are cranky" or "that new food really made her tummy upset." How come I've never really heard anyone say "She's going through a big growth spurt....she seems really sore and restless"? Well, the last week Sam's growth was noticeable and so was her reversion back to screaming more, sleeping a little less, and just being more clingy. At first I didn't really correlate the two and then I just got thinking....

If I think back to each time period where she was more "fussy" it most likely was a time of developmental growth. I distinctly remember (and so does AJ) not being able to fall asleep when I was younger because my knee joints hurt soooo badly. Plus, I don't remember my teeth ever hurting? I can't imagine what could possibly be going on in my daughter's little body as it has doubled in size the last 10 months. Is it possible that we hear something so many times that it becomes all we know even if it is illogical? such as, you're baby is spoiled if you don't let them cry. No, books and the Internet are always right. I also learned through having the pleasure of sleeping with Sam the other night when Dad was flying....we like to cuddle. Lately she is a bed hog and this week she was very restless. She would sit up, lay down, sit up, lay down, and whine the few times through the night. It just seemed like she had what we in college called "crazy legs" or the inability to get comfortable. Insight or what??

This new perspective has given me an entirely new appreciation and approach to whenever she cries out, especially at night. Both AJ and I always want to be there for our little one and want to protector her the best possible as I'm sure all parents do in their own way. We have never been parents who can let her cry and scream all alone, or as some call it Cry-It-Out. With my new theory on growing pains I'm even more confident and proud to selflessly heed my child's needs an time.

Lesson learned...parental intuition and Gods graces are what we should follow in our journey. Plus, is it possible that little babies have a lot going on and it doesn't make any sense to them.

2nd Camping & Playing at the park w/ the Gurleys

2009-07-24T16:01:00.005-06:00

We took one night to go camping this week and ended up at 10,000 ft at the top of Kenosha Pass. We had a great time!!!

Notice the bruise from falling on a toy.

Maddy and Sam had a blast

Brie and Baby Moriah

Helping Hands

2009-07-24T15:25:00.008-06:00

I wish to shout out to everyone what a help my husband and daughter are to keep our home and house functioning. AJ deserves so much love for all the home improvement and just fixit things that he has had to face the last month. We have learned a lot about plumbing, drywall, and various other little things that just keep the world turning. I know that it is hard to come home from work and just have more work to do, especially when it seems that there is always something. It feels like you just begin to feel accomplished and something else comes up. So....

THANK YOU to my wonderful supporting husband and all you other supportive spouses and parents out there!!!!
Helping mom get things done!!

Helping Dad eat a popsicle!!!

Helping Sadie finish her food!!!

Helping w/ laundry!!!

Sleeping w/ Grandpa and food

2009-07-20T08:53:00.002-06:00

I had a night out with the Bradley girls last night. We drank some wine, enjoyed some food, and spent most of the time talking about our babies and being moms. I guess we can't get away from being moms now. It was very fun and nice to enjoy each other in a new light.

Since AJ was working late my parents (and grandma Linda) babysat Sam. It sounds like she did really well but woke up about 45 minutes after going to bed. So, Grandpa walked her around to put her back to sleep. The next thing the girls knew, well the picture tells everything....
I'm getting much better at planning meals for Sam as well. Her meals are second on the list. Check out other meal plan as Menu Plan Monday.

Monday - Fish w Tomato Caper Sauce; Grilled Zucchini and green beans; Strawberry Bread
Grilled Veggies w/ Barley

Camping!!
Tuesday - Chinese Chicken Noodle Salad; corn on the cob
Lentils and Peaches

Wednesday - Mom going to Sushi with the girls from work, Dad - Hashbrown casserole from Freezer shared w/ Sam

Thursday - Teriyaki Chicken Burgers; Salad w/ Cucumbers from the market!!!
Cucumbers and Chicken

Friday - Taco Salad
Beans and Potato Mash

Saturday, Sunday - Dad gone.....leftovers; Quona w/ black beans share w/ S

New Countertops

2009-07-19T07:35:00.005-06:00

Well, we have a big surprise for those who haven't been to our house recently. We got new concrete counter tops in the kitchen and powder room. I'll let the pics talk for themselves.

Entirely new dimension feeding a baby too!!!

2009-07-11T23:30:00.004-06:00

This week is a busy week for food. We have some wonderful Colorado goodies from the farmer's market to treat ourselves. Check out all the great menus at Menu Plan Monday. Plus we are planning to make baby food with our girlfriends Colleen and Caroline!!!

Mon - Italian sausage Zucchini Olive Oil Pasta; salad; toasted Jalapeno bread
Sam - Cheese & Zucchini pasta
Tues- Grilled Chicken; Colorado Corn on the cob; Rice
Sam - Chicken & Pineapple Rice
Wed - Grilled fish; sauteed Green Beans; garlic toast
Sam - Green Beans and Barley

Dad gone to work
Thurs-Fri- We'll have to see what is in the house.

Sat-Bev and Andy's 50th party
Sun-Girl's night out!!!!!

Baby food list:
Bean & Root Vegetable Mash
Chicken & Pineapple Cheese
Creamy Tomato and Lentil Soup
Cheese and Potato Casserole

My Album Cover

2009-07-09T07:25:00.004-06:00

This was a fun way to learn about some randomly generated quotes, pictures and such on the web. Go to Sorta Crunchy and follow the directions to make your band cover.