Happy Birthday Madelyn

Well another Birthday has come and gone for Madelyn and we didn't celebrate it 1) because it is so close after the holidays and 2) because we are so busy with the new house we just haven't had time. I am so glad she doesn't realize it yet. We promised her a party after we get into the new house. But here she is three years old. This is her birthday dress that she got to open before church and wear today. We also did a cupcake with a candle and she loved it! I love this little girl, as wild and feisty as she is, I adore her.

Close to Home

"Too frequently, women underestimate their influence for good. Well could you follow the formula given by the Lord: 'Establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God' (D&C 88:119)."In such a house will be found happy, smiling children who have been taught, by precept and example, the truth. In a Latter-day Saint home, children are not simply tolerated, but welcomed; not commanded, but encouraged; not driven, but guided; not neglected, but loved. "Thomas S. Monson,, "The Spirit of Relief Society, Ensign," May 1992, 101-102

Kitchen love... Which is your favorite.

I need a little help! I don't trust myself to make the right decision and I know all of you out there have a great sense of style!
Travis and I bought a repo and are renovating the kitchen from scratch. I am having a really difficult time defining my style. Please help. I love the new clean and contemporary lines and flat panel kitchen but Travis does not and I am afraid that it will be too trendy and outdated in a matter of years. So, the clean classic white seems to be a safe and reliable venture since it has remained popular in every generation. Or should I stick with a wood in the kitchen? Perhaps a more traditional look? It is such a big and costly decision that I need all of the help I can get. Let me know what you think. Suggestions are welcome!

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c.

Beautiful!

I'll have to find somewhere to use this!

Yummy!

I don't know that I really have a need for these but I want them! They look so yummy for a sweet party! I'm not talking about the cupcake either. I really think these little pastry holders would be great for a baby shower with a pink or blue ribbon tied around it. If I entertained a lot it would be great at a sit down luncheon or something. Alas, like I said I really don't need these but they sure are cute!

Happy Birthday to my Avery!

Thanks for the Skooter Grandma!


A sweet treat for her pre-school class.

We Made It!

This week the kids and I ventured to Disneyland with my mom and my sister. We had an amazing time.. i think Travis feels like he missed out a little and well, he did! But it was his choice. He said he didn't like Disneyland but now I think he wished he'd of gone. It is always a different experience when you experience the magic it with your children!
We stayed across the street at the Howard Johnson. The first night our room was not very good but after the first night I was able to request an upgrade and it was great! It has an outdoor water park and it was perfect for the girls.
I would also recommend this hotel because it is right across the street from the Disneyland Entrance and we watched the fireworks from our room each night. it was spectacular!






The girls got princess pajamas the night before in the hotel room. I love the look of excitement on their faces.

Although it was busier than I expected going midweek in October; it wasn't too bad. I loved the Halloween decor and themes. The Haunted Mansion was particularly great!







Of coarse the "crowning" event was meeting the princesses.

Cause to Celebrate

Last weekend we were excited to finally bless Ty. We are so happy to have him as part of our family. I love that we have so many friends and family to share in in our joy. Thank you to everyone who came out.






What is a celebration with out good food?

And your loved ones!

Finally

I have a closet full of the cutest clothes that I have made for the girls and most of the time Avery fights me to wear any of them. She is content in a simple skirt and t-shirt. But finally I have made something that she loves and wears without coercion. I am working on a coordinating one for Madelyn.

The Happiest Place on Earth

I admit that I am not so good at blogging lately but it is such a great tool when you need advice right? I am asking all of you for tips and advice about travel to Disneyland.
When I was growing up we went quite frequently. Travis went once when he was 19 years old. We've never even been together! He has no desire to go back but I have such great memories of going there, I want my girls to experience the magic as well and I think that they are at the age where they will love it! So, I really want to take them. I have asked my mom to join me. I want to go in October for Avery's B-day because I registered her for the free B-day pass. I have heard a lot of people who have had success buying tickets at great prices though ebay. Does anyone have experience doing this. Also, where do you recommend staying? I have looked into the Annabelle Hotel 1 block from Disneyland and it looks nice. Has anyone stayed there? Also, how many days do you think you need to stay to see it all and really enjoy it without feeling too rushed and such? Is it doable with a 5 mo old or should I make plans to leave the little guy at home? Anything else that you can think of let me know. I really appreciate the input.