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Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Free Giveaways from Balance Skin Care!
Hey friends and family. I know that most of you live too far away to take advantage of my luxurious/results focused facials, but I wanted to let you in on our product giveaway. Click on the Balance Skin Care link below to enter!
Monday, September 28, 2009
First Day of School
Hannah is getting so big! I can't even tell you how proud I am to be her mommy. I found the perfect school for her - I really feel like Heavenly Father placed it on my lap. I had been looking into different preschools for the past few months, but not really feeling like any of them were right for her. After work one Saturday, I ran to Safeway to pick up a few ingredients we needed for dinner. I remember seeing a lady, selling tamales outside of her car and I thought...yummmm, I am in the mood for tamales. On the way out of the store I stopped by to buy some. She was really friendly, and started telling me about how she sells these tamales for her church as a service project. Our conversation came around to what I do and where I work. When I told her I work on The Alameda, she said "Oh! I have a business on The Alameda too". I probed her to tell me more about her business, and found out that she runs a Montessori based preschool for 3-4 year olds. She only accepts 6 children because she really likes to focus one on one with the child so she can teach them how to read, write, count to 100 and she even teaches them about decimals and fractions. Not only that, but it is a Christian based school, so they pray and talk a lot about Jesus. Every Friday they take a break from the normal school regimen. They visit Andy's Pet Shop which is down the street, get a cookie at the Bakery, and eat a snack at Subway. She has a beautiful back yard with tons of play structures and plants, flowers, and vegetables. She is getting ready to teach the children how to plant this week. Miss Sara also teaches them how to cook. Hannah is really thriving here. We are in our 2nd week, and Josh and I have really noticed a huge difference in her Independence, creativity, and ability to write and recognize the phonics of the alphabet. It's exciting to see. She likes to practice writing her name - and she surprised us this weekend by bringing me a piece of paper with her name written on it. She loves Miss Sara, and I can see how happy she is every time I pick her up. Dropping her off is another story. She has been having a hard time (especially when Josh takes her), and she cries when we leave. I know this is normal. I call a few minutes after I leave and she is happy and content, playing and learning.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Baby On The Way!
We are so happy and excited. We waited a long time to announce it, but we are 18 weeks along already. I wanted to post the pictures that were taken today as we found out we are having a boy! We already love our little man. Hannah will make a great big sister, she already loves to talk to him.
This one is a little graphic
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Busy busy busy
I have been such a bad blogger...ugh! Business has really picked up. I found a few minutes before I leave to go back to work to update our blog a little.Hannah is now 3 years old. Her personality has really blossomed. She makes us laugh all the time with the things she comes up with. She loves to sing and dance (still). She is extremely loving, and constantly telling her mommy and daddy how much she loves them. It's really cute. I am still looking for the perfect pre-school for Hannah. For now, she has been having fun at the Kids Park pre-school when I work on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
The last few months have been stressful for me. We got a second room for our spa, so Marina and I can do treatments at the same time. It just took a while to do and a lot of money to buy all the esthetic equipment again. It actually turned out really cute.
We have been pretty busy, so the phones keep me on my feet. I decided that it is time to hand the phones over to a professional answering service. I found a local company to do the job for me. I am hoping the transition will start this week and I will no longer have to book our appointments. There are a few things that have been helping me stay on top of life. One is dream dinners, I make 12 dinners at this great business, and then freeze them for the month. The other is to have my house cleaned 2 times a month. I feel like I could use it a little more often, but at least all the heavy stuff is done, so I can use the time I do have at home to be with Hannah and focus on my business.
We took the weekend to have a family reunion at my mom's house. It was a nice, relaxing weekend. Katrine Kruger took the picture of our family I put at the top of this post. She is so talented, and I can't wait to see the rest of the pictures she took of our family.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Trapped in a camera
Over the past few months, my camera has been broken. I sent it in to Canon repair center and 2 weeks later it came back- fixed for free! I love Canon!! Anyway, these are some of the pictures that have been trapped on my broken camera for the past months. Random and fun memories.
Heather and Hannah swimming yesterday
Baby Will Dunford. Kristin and her family came for a visit to California! We had fun even though they got really sick while they were here. I miss them!
Briggs at the beach.
Addison and Hannah
Kristin and Will
Grandpa Jim and Grandma Georgia came to visit in April too.
We had a really nice time hanging out with them.
Valentines day in Monterey. We live in such a beautiful place.
We stayed at the Monterey Beach Resort right on the water. Thanks to Allyson (Jennifer's sister) we were able to get a killer deal for the room. Hannah had pink eye so we had to bring her with us. Our romantic get-a-way was not so romantic, it was fun though.
Allyson had this plate delivered to us as soon as we got there.
Hannah in her underwear and apron playing on our back porch.
Heather and Hannah swimming yesterday
Baby Will Dunford. Kristin and her family came for a visit to California! We had fun even though they got really sick while they were here. I miss them!
Briggs at the beach.
Addison and Hannah
Kristin and Will
Grandpa Jim and Grandma Georgia came to visit in April too.
We had a really nice time hanging out with them.
Valentines day in Monterey. We live in such a beautiful place.
We stayed at the Monterey Beach Resort right on the water. Thanks to Allyson (Jennifer's sister) we were able to get a killer deal for the room. Hannah had pink eye so we had to bring her with us. Our romantic get-a-way was not so romantic, it was fun though.
Allyson had this plate delivered to us as soon as we got there.
Hannah in her underwear and apron playing on our back porch.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
I turned 31
Okay, okay! I know I have not blogged in a million years. I just kind of fell off the bandwagon for a little bit. Part of the problem is the lack of a camera (ours is still being fixed at the Canon manufacturer). Life has been really great. I can't complain at all. We are in Ohio right now. Hannah is still really sweet, fun and loving. She loves to snuggle and tickle, sing and dance. Josh is really busy working on a project for AEP, and seems to like it for the most part. We are in limbo, trying to figure out if he will be selling the next phase of the project. There is a chance this could be the last time Hannah and I come out here. I love being here and have been enjoying the "vacation" time.
Yesterday I turned 31! I had a great day.
Yesterday I turned 31! I had a great day.
- I slept in
- Hannah and I ate breakfast at 1pm at the Cheesecake Factory
- Josh sent me a beautiful boquet of flowers with a sweet note.
- We had a little party at our neighbors house
- Hannah and I picked up Jim and Georgia McKibben from the airport
- Josh made reservations at The Melting Pot for all of us (DELICIOUS)
- To top the day off, at 8pm we watched Hannah run in the fountian with all her clothes and shoes on before we walked home.
I also heared from a lot of my family and friends, so I was talking on the phone and getting messages from facebook all day. Thanks for all the LOVE!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
New Friends, Birthday, Sickness and Fun
AND STILL NO CAMERA!
Back in Ohio. Hannah is taking a bubble bath while I type this sitting on the bathroom floor to keep her company. It's such a good life out here....like vacation. I feel so busy and overwhelmed sometimes in California juggling family, home and a business. When I am here, I only answer phones for my business and book appointments for Marina. The rest of the time I am able to take care of Hannah and play around Easton. Not a bad place to be. Hannah has been really sick again. Last week my friend Tina came to Santa Cruz with her son Noah. Hannah and I spent 5 days with them at my mom's house in the Santa Cruz mountains. We went to the boardwalk, the beach, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and hung out with friends. Poor Hannah got a stomach flu while they were visiting. It was so much fun to spend time with Tina again. It's been since College, before she got married since we really spend good one on one time together.
Hannah and I missed Josh's birthday because of flight issues. We ended up coming on Tuesday (the day after his b-day). That was kind of sad, but we went out to a nice dinner and I made him cake the next day. It was really low key. Hannah had a fever for 3 days and is now dealing with a runny nose.
One of the highlights this week was having my friend Sydnee over for lunch. It's so nice to meet a friend so quickly. One that you really connect with on many different levels. She really uplifts me. I trusted her from the beginning, and the friendship has blossomed so quickly and beautifully. She is having us over for dinner tonight. I truly believe this little friendship is a miracle sent from heaven. I prayed I would meet someone the first week I was here. She prayed that she could be a friend to someone who needed one. What a blessing!
Josh, Hannah and I had a great time yesterday running though the fountain at Easton, swimming in our freezing cold pool, and spending time at Alum Creek Park. It was a really full day, and we are all paying for it with exhaustion today. Hannah has a little burn on the 2 places I forgot to put sunscreen on her. It was really hot.
Easton Fountian
Today is Sunday. Josh and Hannah are taking naps before our afternoon church (Hannah is not technically sleeping, I hear her whispering to herself). It starts at 1:30pm. Hannah does not do well with this time, and I have noticed all the kids in the nursery seem in need of a nap.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
GIVE AWAY!
One of my best friends (the oh so super talented Kristin) makes these amazing baby burp clothes. They are so stinkin cute! Visit her blog for details on how you can will some free stuff. It's this weekend only. http://www.krissilus.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Mommy Bloggers
My newest friend Sydnee told me about a funny blog she frequently reads. I got a total kick out of it. It's a spoof, making fun of LDS mommy bloggers. It's only been around since June, but has a HUGE following. http://www.seriouslysoblessed.blogspot.com/. Now she makes all kinds of money on advertising alone. Check it out, it's worth a few minutes. It is 100% made up and it's super entertaining.
I also just read an article talking about why some businesses are looking to the mommy bloggers to promote their products. I just thought it was interesting. For those of you hard core bloggers, you could make money doing it if you have a big enough following.
More on MOMMY BLOGGING and some fun resources. Click Here
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Welcome Spring!
I am getting excited for Spring. I like the sunshine, and days like today. It's sweater weather, and I love walking in the crisp air.
A few highlights from our first 2 week trip to Ohio.
*We are all moved in our new apartment. I LOVE the location. You name it, it is right across the street. It's like Santana Row, but a million times better. I have only dropped Josh off 2 times since we have been here because I don't even need a car! We have a really nice neighbor too.
*We went to Josh's parents house on Saturday. It was really nice to spend the day with them. They live about 1.5 hours away in a cosy little town. Josh's grandmother and grandfather passed away last year, and his parents gave us some things to complete our apartment here (blender, waffle iron, bowls, etc). We ate at my favorite Mennonite owned health food store/cafe and saw a new baby cow. Life on the farm is good!
*Church yesterday was fun. We met a lot of new people, one in particular really reached out to me. She already called me today to ask Hannah and I over for lunch before we go home on Thursday. It made me realize that I am not usually that proactive about making new friends when I see a new face. I would like to be more like her in that respect. I am excited to get to know her better.
*Business is really picked up last week. We had a record number of clients 23! I am answering the phones these days, and Marina is busy giving our clients AMAZING FACIALS! We got a few more five star reviews on Yelp this week too which makes me happy.
* I started a new skin care blog, but only one post so far. I am so trying to get used to WordPress. It's way different than blogger. I like Blogger much better. I might move it if I don't get the hang of it soon.
* I created a facebook account for Balance Skin Care too. Add me as your friend :) I also have become acquainted with twitter and you can follow me at BalanceYourSkin. I got two great books on Social Media to help promote my business. I know all that is really boring for most of you, so I will stop.
It's a good life. I love spending so much time with my family. What a blessing this (being in Ohio) has all turned out to be.
A few highlights from our first 2 week trip to Ohio.
*We are all moved in our new apartment. I LOVE the location. You name it, it is right across the street. It's like Santana Row, but a million times better. I have only dropped Josh off 2 times since we have been here because I don't even need a car! We have a really nice neighbor too.
*We went to Josh's parents house on Saturday. It was really nice to spend the day with them. They live about 1.5 hours away in a cosy little town. Josh's grandmother and grandfather passed away last year, and his parents gave us some things to complete our apartment here (blender, waffle iron, bowls, etc). We ate at my favorite Mennonite owned health food store/cafe and saw a new baby cow. Life on the farm is good!
*Church yesterday was fun. We met a lot of new people, one in particular really reached out to me. She already called me today to ask Hannah and I over for lunch before we go home on Thursday. It made me realize that I am not usually that proactive about making new friends when I see a new face. I would like to be more like her in that respect. I am excited to get to know her better.
*Business is really picked up last week. We had a record number of clients 23! I am answering the phones these days, and Marina is busy giving our clients AMAZING FACIALS! We got a few more five star reviews on Yelp this week too which makes me happy.
* I started a new skin care blog, but only one post so far. I am so trying to get used to WordPress. It's way different than blogger. I like Blogger much better. I might move it if I don't get the hang of it soon.
* I created a facebook account for Balance Skin Care too. Add me as your friend :) I also have become acquainted with twitter and you can follow me at BalanceYourSkin. I got two great books on Social Media to help promote my business. I know all that is really boring for most of you, so I will stop.
It's a good life. I love spending so much time with my family. What a blessing this (being in Ohio) has all turned out to be.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Terrible Twos
So, we have been dealing with our sweet Hannah not being so sweet these days. She has stopped cooperating during meal times, when it's time to get dressed and nap times. I am a pushover. I do let her get away with way to much. I think part of the problem is that I don't know how to get her to do what I want with out starting an all out war. I also don't like to yell (the non-confrontational side of me). I decided to use some of my time out here to learn how to be a better mom. I downloaded an audio book by Chris Thomson at www.talkingtotoddlers.com. So far what I have listened to is awesome! I have already started using what he calls binds and presuppositions to help your kids comply with what you want them to do. It's all about getting them to think they are making their own decision, but really you set them up to do what you want them to do. I have a lot I need to practice, but I am hoping that these tools will help with her terrible twos.
Hannah is coughing a lot, especially at night. We have been inside all day, hoping Josh can come home quickly so we can go to the Urgent Care. I called our doctor and I guess there is a lot of phenomena and bronchitis going around. They want Hannah to be checked out as soon as possible.
I decided we didn't need the car today so he took it to work. Hannah and I appreciated sleeping in :) We are so lucky to have a car! Josh's parents lent us a car while we are here. It's a real luxury car and we have been enjoying the leather seats and spacious trunk. Josh's parents live only a few hours away, so we are excited to spend some time with them on the farm. Hopefully Hannah gets better this week so we can visit by the weekend.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Easton Town Center
We made it to Ohio! The flight was a nightmare, glad that is over. Saturday we went to see a few places we might live. We found a beautiful apartment in a really cool part of town. We will move in tomorrow YIPPIE! Check it out! Click here to see our apartments.
I got a new laptop yesterday too, so I can blog to my hearts desire. One of my goals is to get a new skin care blog up and running. We will see how it goes, I have a lot of knowledge and experience but sometimes I lack the motivation and confidence to write it all down.
This afternoon we went to a beautiful park and played with Hannah. People here are so much more kick back than in California. They are much friendlier too. Still, as we drive around I can't help but compare the differences, and California is much more interesting and cool. I love the Bay Area!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
ARE YOU OKAY?
I was motivated to publish a post because my friend Julia had to message me to ask if I am okay tonight while on Facebook, because I have not blogged in FOREVER. Seriously, I fell off the bandwagon. I really have a lot to blog about. Here is the cliff notes version.
* Baby Noah is here! Born March 3rd. Check Melissa's blog to see how stinkin handsome he is!
* Josh's parents came for a wonderful visit. We had a blast hanging out with them.
* Kristin and family came to visit from Arizona for a week. Although they were sick, we still had a memorable time kickin it.
* Josh sold a BIG (HUGE) year long project in Columbus Ohio. He will be able to come home on the weekends. Since Hannah and I miss him so much during the week, we decided to join him for 2 weeks out of the month (every month). Ohio, here we come! We leave on Friday for our first 2 week visit.
* Marina has come on board with Balance Skin Care (my business) full time! We are keeping really busy, despite a tough economy we are growing. She came back the same week that we found out about Josh's work. The Lord works in mysterious ways! We are being taken care of. My clients are in very good hands - which makes me happy.
* I got sand in my camera while at the beach, so I have no pictures (sigh).
Believe me people, I will have all the time in the world to blog when I get out in Ohio. Assuming I get a laptop this week.
* Baby Noah is here! Born March 3rd. Check Melissa's blog to see how stinkin handsome he is!
* Josh's parents came for a wonderful visit. We had a blast hanging out with them.
* Kristin and family came to visit from Arizona for a week. Although they were sick, we still had a memorable time kickin it.
* Josh sold a BIG (HUGE) year long project in Columbus Ohio. He will be able to come home on the weekends. Since Hannah and I miss him so much during the week, we decided to join him for 2 weeks out of the month (every month). Ohio, here we come! We leave on Friday for our first 2 week visit.
* Marina has come on board with Balance Skin Care (my business) full time! We are keeping really busy, despite a tough economy we are growing. She came back the same week that we found out about Josh's work. The Lord works in mysterious ways! We are being taken care of. My clients are in very good hands - which makes me happy.
* I got sand in my camera while at the beach, so I have no pictures (sigh).
Believe me people, I will have all the time in the world to blog when I get out in Ohio. Assuming I get a laptop this week.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
"I LOVE YOUR SPRINKLES"
Hannah, looking at the freckles on my shoulder, and caressing them softly:
"Mommy, I love your sprinkles. They are butiful"
Then looking down at my knee, and the two day hair growth:
"I love these sprinkles too"
I am planning on shaving today :)
I re-arranged Hannah's play area under the stairs.
It has been an intense week for Hannah and I. It all started on Friday night. My good friends Jan and Wanda Salden are heading on a mission for 1 1/2 years in the Netherlands. Their going away party was Friday, which meant Malena and Jason (some of my best friends growing up, and children of Jan and Wanda) flew into town. The party was fun and the food was off the hook. The best part was after the party. Josh was camping with the scouts at the Sunset beach camp ground a few miles from the party in Watsonville. Jason, Jared, Missy and I decided to go and sneak up on their camp ground and scare Josh. We finally found their campground and luckily the scouts were in their tents sleeping. Josh and Ed (the other leader) were chillin by the fire, talking. We hid in the bushes while Jared proceeded to make sounds like a bird "Kaa-Kaa" "Kaa-Kaa". Josh was getting a little uneasy, and wondering what kind of freak would get his jollys off sneaking up on a group of campers. They decided to just sit there and pretend nothing was out there, maybe they would go away. Finally Jared said in a deep voice "paging Josh McKibben, paging Josh McKibben". Josh had no idea it was us, I felt like I was back in High School. It was stupid, but fun. Josh got a kick out of it too. Hannah and I got home really late that night.
Jason and I
The next day I had a full day of clients. Josh picked me up from work and we drove to S.F. for Supercross. We are so not into that stuff, but it was fun to hang out with my dad and brothers for a little while. We got there an hour late, and left 2 hours early. I was exhausted.
Monday we went to the beach most of the day with Malena and Jason. The rest of the day we hung out at the Saldens- like old times. Hannah didn't get a nap. This started her on a week of rebelliousness (being off her schedule and having some pretty bad meltdowns).
This pose reminds me when Josh does his rocker air guitar imipression.
Tuesday was busy with me working again, and dinner at Paula and Shanes. Josh packed and left at 3am Wednesday morning for Ohio to sell a huge project and spend the weekend with his parents.
Wednesday was helping my sister who is on bed rest- we left at 8am and got home by 8pm. It was fun to watch Hannah play with Audrey and Addison. Melissa did a pretty good job at staying down. I only had to yell at her once or twice to lay down.
Hannah and Addison picked out these outfits themselves. That hat crackes me up.
Thursday was working all day, and a date night with Hannah on Santana Row. Friday has been great. Working out, 1-2-3 grow (Hannah's play time), homemade pizza and smoothies, cleaning the house etc.. I have been under a lot of pressure lately getting adjusted to booking clients for my business again. I have the phones now. I also don't have Tomoko helping watch Hannah anymore (this month anyway). I have been relying on my friends and babysitters to help me out. With Josh gone (not watching Hannah in the evenings for me) I have felt stressed. I am just glad it is Friday. I have a sitter coming for 8 hours tomorrow. It reminds me of how much Josh does, and how much I rely on him Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
"Mommy, I love your sprinkles. They are butiful"
Then looking down at my knee, and the two day hair growth:
"I love these sprinkles too"
I am planning on shaving today :)
I re-arranged Hannah's play area under the stairs.
It has been an intense week for Hannah and I. It all started on Friday night. My good friends Jan and Wanda Salden are heading on a mission for 1 1/2 years in the Netherlands. Their going away party was Friday, which meant Malena and Jason (some of my best friends growing up, and children of Jan and Wanda) flew into town. The party was fun and the food was off the hook. The best part was after the party. Josh was camping with the scouts at the Sunset beach camp ground a few miles from the party in Watsonville. Jason, Jared, Missy and I decided to go and sneak up on their camp ground and scare Josh. We finally found their campground and luckily the scouts were in their tents sleeping. Josh and Ed (the other leader) were chillin by the fire, talking. We hid in the bushes while Jared proceeded to make sounds like a bird "Kaa-Kaa" "Kaa-Kaa". Josh was getting a little uneasy, and wondering what kind of freak would get his jollys off sneaking up on a group of campers. They decided to just sit there and pretend nothing was out there, maybe they would go away. Finally Jared said in a deep voice "paging Josh McKibben, paging Josh McKibben". Josh had no idea it was us, I felt like I was back in High School. It was stupid, but fun. Josh got a kick out of it too. Hannah and I got home really late that night.
Jason and I
The next day I had a full day of clients. Josh picked me up from work and we drove to S.F. for Supercross. We are so not into that stuff, but it was fun to hang out with my dad and brothers for a little while. We got there an hour late, and left 2 hours early. I was exhausted.
Monday we went to the beach most of the day with Malena and Jason. The rest of the day we hung out at the Saldens- like old times. Hannah didn't get a nap. This started her on a week of rebelliousness (being off her schedule and having some pretty bad meltdowns).
This pose reminds me when Josh does his rocker air guitar imipression.
Tuesday was busy with me working again, and dinner at Paula and Shanes. Josh packed and left at 3am Wednesday morning for Ohio to sell a huge project and spend the weekend with his parents.
Wednesday was helping my sister who is on bed rest- we left at 8am and got home by 8pm. It was fun to watch Hannah play with Audrey and Addison. Melissa did a pretty good job at staying down. I only had to yell at her once or twice to lay down.
Hannah and Addison picked out these outfits themselves. That hat crackes me up.
Thursday was working all day, and a date night with Hannah on Santana Row. Friday has been great. Working out, 1-2-3 grow (Hannah's play time), homemade pizza and smoothies, cleaning the house etc.. I have been under a lot of pressure lately getting adjusted to booking clients for my business again. I have the phones now. I also don't have Tomoko helping watch Hannah anymore (this month anyway). I have been relying on my friends and babysitters to help me out. With Josh gone (not watching Hannah in the evenings for me) I have felt stressed. I am just glad it is Friday. I have a sitter coming for 8 hours tomorrow. It reminds me of how much Josh does, and how much I rely on him Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Stains the Dog
I am a little slap happy right now from lack of sleep, but I almost peed my pants when I saw this clip on The Soup. This is not the exact clip I saw by Joel McHale, but still pretty funny. Check out the eyes on that dog! Seriously! Is he hypnotized???
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Beware of the Bird
Our little pre-madonna has become quite the music snob. These days, while driving in the car, she will kick and scream if she doesn't like the song I have playing on the radio. I have come to the conclusion that easy listening and alternative are not for her. She seems to like more of the hip hop stuff, or anything with a good beat. She is a car seat dancer. While we were in Berlin we made some friends who were also from the Bay Area. Aundy, Barclay, Jasper (Hannah's age) and baby Ella were all in Berlin for almost the same amount of time we were. Barclay (AKA DJ Claude VonStroke) is a big time DJ, and he was doing his thing in all the major European clubbing cities. Long story short, we have his CD (Beware of the Bird) in our car, and now all Hannah wants to listen to is our friends awesome techno dance beats. You think she might be growing up a little too fast?? What happened to 2 year olds liking normal things- like Barney?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSqJRYf33lwhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-can0ArLi4
Thursday, January 22, 2009
"Hi ya Little Fellas..."
First, I will give you some history on Mr. and Mrs. Bobblehead. On my wedding day, Josh's mother Georgia (bless her heart) got us these bobbleheads. I think the skin color was brown or something, because she hand painted the head parts and then slipped in pictures of the both of us. We had this displayed at our reception - it was a crack up. Mr. and Mrs. Bobblehead have been living in a wooden decorative box in our living room (for the past almost 4 years) and Hannah discovered it today. She was very excited to find that Mr. and Mrs. Bobblehead were actually mommy and daddy. She said "Hi ya little fellas, you are mommy and daddy!.....oh you need to go to the potty? Whatcha doin movin your heads little fellas?". She even insisted on taking a nap with them. When she woke up she said "The fellas took a good nap today". I have no idea where she got the "little fellas" thing. It made me laugh out loud to hear her talk and play with them today.
Today was really productive for me. After a work out with Paula, we took Hannah and Tristian to 1-2-3 grow. Hannah and Tristian had a blast playing, singing, running, playing with the parachute, and making music. I forgot how fun that program is. The rest of the day I scrubbed, washed, swept, mopped, vacuumed, dusted, disinfected, laundered, polished, tidied, folded, and hung. I also finally put away the Christmas tree (I was done asking Josh to do it). Then Hannah and I did mani - pedi's as a reward for our hard work.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Paranoid
Yes, today I decided to check my stat counter, just to see what kind of activity I have going on my blog, business website and product website. I noticed right away that there was an IP address from Lafayette CA (a couple hours from here), that would show up 6-10 times a day on this blog!! I couldn't think of any of my friends who live up there, so I started getting kind of freaked out. I checked the IP address against mine, but it was not the same. Despite the very fun time we had with our friends this evening, I have been worrying about it all night. My first instinct was to go private, but heaven knows I have found so many of my friends blogs by accident and I would be sad if they were all private. I was about to go to bed, and decided to try one last thing. I got on my blog from my facebook account, then checked the stat counted. Sure enough, I am the one from Lafayette! Who would have known???? I use my blog as a homepage to read up on all your lives which explains the huge number of page loads. Ha! I am the stalker!.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Welcome home!
Josh went to Portland for a couple of days, so Hannah and I have been having fun with a little girl time. She is so funny. First of all, a little update on the potty training. She is a pro, no accidents at all. She is now waking up all by herself to tell me she has to go a few times a night. I have been shocked by how easy she was to potty train. I know that every child is different. I lucked out. A few tips I learned:
1. The parent needs to be prepared (and willing to stay home for a few days). I read a book I found online by Johanne Cesar which helped me tremendously.
2. Get your little one excited about big kid undies, let them pick the undies out.
3. Start on the day you decide, and don't go back. Set the alarm every 15-20 minutes and don't let up. Dance your way to the potty as if it's a party. Celebrate when they actually go.
4. Have a potty chart. I know photoshop, so I personalized mine with pictures of Hannah. Get stickers for when they are successful.
5. Start early. According to this book I read, the earlier the easier. After 2 1/2-3 years it gets much harder as they want to challenge you by saying NO. She says to start on their 2nd birthday.
The weather has been so nice in California lately. It's actually warm, like t-shirt weather, and so beautiful. Yesterday in the car, Hannah asked me in her most pleading voice "mommy can you please turn off the sun?". It was hurting her eyes. I laughed before letting her know mommy didn't have that kind of power.
Hannah has a little cold right now. Josh got home late last night, right as Hannah was having a fussy snotty drooley melt-down. As soon as she saw him she stopped crying and smiled and reached out to be held by him. He was able to give her a blessing and she slept the whole night (besides a trip or two to the potty). She seems to be feeling much better today.
I have been feeling really good lately, with the almost daily trips to the gym. I am telling you, 24 (as in Jack Bauer) has been great for my health. Now if I could just get back on a healthier eating kick. Still loving my itouch.
Welcome home Josh! We missed you!
Monday, January 5, 2009
new found motivation
We got an iPod Touch each this year for Christmas. The best part about it is the movie feature in my opinion. We are having fun with our new toy.
Josh and I discovered the show 24 last year. We only watched one season before we left for Germany. Now that we are on Season two, we have become a little bit obsessed. We don't watch any other T.V. or movies. 24 is where it's at. So we started watching our favorite show on our Touch at the gym. Josh's brother Garrett gave us the idea. I love working out now! Whatever it takes right?
Josh and I discovered the show 24 last year. We only watched one season before we left for Germany. Now that we are on Season two, we have become a little bit obsessed. We don't watch any other T.V. or movies. 24 is where it's at. So we started watching our favorite show on our Touch at the gym. Josh's brother Garrett gave us the idea. I love working out now! Whatever it takes right?
Can I please have some sauce with my fun?
Tonight Josh and I made some really good chicken quesadilla triangles and home made tortilla chips and cilantro lime dipping sauce. So so so yummy! Hannah really took a liking to the chips and said right away "these are fun". We quickly agreed that indeed they were fun. She ended up calling the chips "fun" the rest of the night. It was pretty cute hearing her talk about the really good fun she was eating.
Hannah being a "Super Duper Flower" tonight. Where does she come up with these things?
For Christmas this year, my dad gave us a whole bunch of things for cooking his famous chocolate chip cookies. They are a lot healthier than the ones I regularly make. They were SO GOOD! When I get more time I will post the recipe.
I have been loving the family time lately. I am trying to keep up the healthy recipes for Hannah. I made some applesauce muffins with whole wheat flour, applesauce, and carrot puree. They are actually really good. Hannah calls it her cake.
topping:
2/3 cup oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tbl melted butter
muffin batter:
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup oats
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup carrot puree
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup veg oil
1 lg egg
combine topping ingredients in small bowl. set aside.
preheat oven to 400 F and line muffin tins with unbleached muffin liners.
for the batter: combine flour thru cinnamon and mix with fork in bowl. in a large bowl, combine vanilla thru egg and stir until combined. add flour and stir JUST UNTIL MIXED.
pour evenly into muffin tins and top with streusel topping. bake 20 min. now eat!
Hannah being a "Super Duper Flower" tonight. Where does she come up with these things?
For Christmas this year, my dad gave us a whole bunch of things for cooking his famous chocolate chip cookies. They are a lot healthier than the ones I regularly make. They were SO GOOD! When I get more time I will post the recipe.
I have been loving the family time lately. I am trying to keep up the healthy recipes for Hannah. I made some applesauce muffins with whole wheat flour, applesauce, and carrot puree. They are actually really good. Hannah calls it her cake.
topping:
2/3 cup oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tbl melted butter
muffin batter:
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup oats
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup carrot puree
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup veg oil
1 lg egg
combine topping ingredients in small bowl. set aside.
preheat oven to 400 F and line muffin tins with unbleached muffin liners.
for the batter: combine flour thru cinnamon and mix with fork in bowl. in a large bowl, combine vanilla thru egg and stir until combined. add flour and stir JUST UNTIL MIXED.
pour evenly into muffin tins and top with streusel topping. bake 20 min. now eat!
Christmas and 2009
Hannah with Santa
We had an amazing time this Christmas! Josh and I had a little party at our house for Christmas Eve again. The food was great, white elephant gift exchange was fun, we even did Christmas karaoke. We made some really great memories.
Christmas day was wonderful too. We woke up early to get ready and have a quick Christmas celebration with just us. Then we drove to my mom's house in Santa Cruz for the big yearly celebration. After hours of opening presents, eating and hanging out we drove to my dad's house in Morgan Hill. We then ate more and opened more presents. We are always exhausted by the end of Christmas day. Our family is growing so fast. It is so much fun to be with everyone. I wish that Josh's family lived closer so we could get together more often with them.
The break Josh and I had was wonderful. I already mentioned we spent this time potty training Hannah. She is a champ, and has taken well to big girl undies. She really has it down.
New Years we had another little get together at our house. My mom and Andre, and their friend visiting from Japan came over with a whole bunch of home made Japanese food. It was really good. We had a good time just playing games and hanging out. It was pretty low key, but a fun and memorable new years.
We had an amazing time this Christmas! Josh and I had a little party at our house for Christmas Eve again. The food was great, white elephant gift exchange was fun, we even did Christmas karaoke. We made some really great memories.
Christmas day was wonderful too. We woke up early to get ready and have a quick Christmas celebration with just us. Then we drove to my mom's house in Santa Cruz for the big yearly celebration. After hours of opening presents, eating and hanging out we drove to my dad's house in Morgan Hill. We then ate more and opened more presents. We are always exhausted by the end of Christmas day. Our family is growing so fast. It is so much fun to be with everyone. I wish that Josh's family lived closer so we could get together more often with them.
The break Josh and I had was wonderful. I already mentioned we spent this time potty training Hannah. She is a champ, and has taken well to big girl undies. She really has it down.
New Years we had another little get together at our house. My mom and Andre, and their friend visiting from Japan came over with a whole bunch of home made Japanese food. It was really good. We had a good time just playing games and hanging out. It was pretty low key, but a fun and memorable new years.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
IT WORKS!
Potty training Hannah has been the cutest thing ever. I have been dreading this for a while, but I read up on the subject and was prepared when last Friday (the day after Christmas) we jumped into it head first. I love potty training Hannah! It has really helped that Josh was home with us the whole time. It became a full on family party every time Hannah went in the potty. The buzzer would go off every 20 minutes, and we would all do a conga line singing "pee pee in the potty" (rolling our hands and kicking one foot out on the word potty). When she made pee pee, we would give her a sticker to put on her personalized potty chart. The cutest part was that she would say "it doesn't work" or "it works!" depending on if she was able to go or not. She is trained (it only took 3 days!). Today she has not had one accident, no accidents yesterday either. We went to Church yesterday (all 3 hours) and I was able to take her to the gym today - wearing big girl undies the whole time. I am so proud of her! She has done an amazing job. I love the time we have spent together doing this as a family. It was truly a wonderful and unforgettable past few days.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Labor of Love
If my love for Hannah is ever questioned....here is the proof. Hours and hours of cooking, baking and pureeing veggies so she can grow healthy and strong. This is what I did yesterday, and it took me most of the day. What you see in the picture is; sweet potato, cauliflower, carrots, spinach, squash and summer squash. So far the things we have made have been a success. I made her and Jewel pizza (on whole wheat pita bread, with spinach puree under the tomato sauce and cheese), hot chocolate (is a real winner with Hannah, just put some sweat potato in there), and butter noodles with yellow squash.
This is a picture of Hannah last night. Enjoying her whole wheat noodles with summer squash puree and peas.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Artist in Training
My friend Sage had mentioned on her blog that Amazon was having an awesome sale on the Melissa and Doug Art Easel. I have been wanting to get Hannah one of these easels, she really loves art and drawing. It was %50 off, and free shipping! So we set it up as an early Christmas present. So much fun! She has been busy all day drawing, and pretending it is a house. I have been busy trying to teach her that the small pens can be used on the white board, the chalk only on the chalk board, and the markers only on the paper. She has been really good at it so far. The sale is still on (as of last night) if you are looking for an art easel. Thanks Sage!
Friday night we went to San Francisco to meet up with our friend Jeanna and her boyfriend for dinner. Jeanna is from NYC, but we met in Germany (she was attending the same program that Josh did). It was so fun to see her again. We ate at Out the Door, where Josh's best friend waited on us! Kristian totally hooked us up, and the food was so good.
Finicky Eater
Last night, Josh, Hannah and I were having fun browsing around Target. After looking at some really cool flat screen T.V.'s that we had no intent on buying, we spent about 15 minutes in the book section. I found a really great book (big time on sale by the way), all about how to get my picky little eater to consume more vegetables (without her even knowing it!). Tonight I read the whole cook book, made a shopping list, and tested the pink pancake recipe. Okay, get this! The pink pancake's have pureed beets, ricotta cheese, and apples. I substituted the ricotta for cottage cheese, and apples for banana's, and it was still a hit. So I got the veggie, protein, and fruit in one meal! Not only that, they were pinkalicious and so pretty. Tomorrow is my day (kind of like a P-Day) to get things done. I will be shopping, steaming, cooking and pureeing a ton of healthy veggies that will then be put into plastic bags and into the freezer for future meals. I will be keeping you posted on how it goes :)
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Introducing Miss Hannah, The Puppeteer!
Oma bought Hannah a puppet theater and tons of really cute puppets. What a lucky little girl. She has really enjoyed her new puppet friends and fun shows. Thanks Oma!
PORTLAND*FAMILY*LAURA MAE
Last Wednesday we flew out to Portland to visit Josh's brother and family for Thanksgiving. It was my first Thanksgiving away from my family in at least 10 years. It was fun bonding with Garrett, Mindy and the girls again. Hannah was in HEAVEN, playing with her cousins. She was the center of attention. All 4 of the girls slept in the same room, and Hannah even slept in a big girl bed for the first time. It was her first official sleep over. We got to meet sweet Bella for the first time. I loved holding that beautiful little girl. The food was amazing - seriously, Mindy knows how to cook a mean Thanksgiving meal. I made my first pecan pie and my first pumpkin pie. Josh was really hoping I would learn a few tricks in the kitchen since I have never done Thanksgiving at my house before. Usually my family does pot luck style, each family making a few dishes to contribute. Friday we went to cut down a Christmas tree, which was the only time we left the house while we were there. It was such a relaxing, wonderful holiday.
The McKibben's found a tree!
Hannah, Paige and Lidia strike a pose.
Josh, gettin crazy with the saw.....scary!
Sweet Bella!
McKibben Brothers.
Running in the forest.
Hannah's silly smile
Laura Mae McKibben, Josh's grandmother passed away the evening before we flew to Portland. We changed our flights so that Josh and Garrett could fly out to the funeral. We all really love Laura Mae. She is such a special person. We were all expecting her to pass away any day, she had been suffering for some time now. She had lung cancer, and didn't want to do anything to fight it. Josh had a really touching experience at her funeral, and enjoyed spending time with his parents and siblings in Ohio.
Laura Mae and Hannah last time we saw great grandma.
On another note, I have been busy getting ready for a holiday skin care boutique I am putting on at my little spa. I even expanded some of my inventory to candles, body wash and lotions, makeup brushes, and even a lip treatment. We will see how it goes. I have a fully booked schedule of free peels as an incentive to get people in the door. I am also raffling off prizes, giving away free product if clients book that day and giving away $20.00 coupons for those buying gift certificates. This is the first event I have ever attempted to do, so wish us luck!
Sunday was such a gorgeous day at my mom's house.
The McKibben's found a tree!
Hannah, Paige and Lidia strike a pose.
Josh, gettin crazy with the saw.....scary!
Sweet Bella!
McKibben Brothers.
Running in the forest.
Hannah's silly smile
Laura Mae McKibben, Josh's grandmother passed away the evening before we flew to Portland. We changed our flights so that Josh and Garrett could fly out to the funeral. We all really love Laura Mae. She is such a special person. We were all expecting her to pass away any day, she had been suffering for some time now. She had lung cancer, and didn't want to do anything to fight it. Josh had a really touching experience at her funeral, and enjoyed spending time with his parents and siblings in Ohio.
Laura Mae and Hannah last time we saw great grandma.
On another note, I have been busy getting ready for a holiday skin care boutique I am putting on at my little spa. I even expanded some of my inventory to candles, body wash and lotions, makeup brushes, and even a lip treatment. We will see how it goes. I have a fully booked schedule of free peels as an incentive to get people in the door. I am also raffling off prizes, giving away free product if clients book that day and giving away $20.00 coupons for those buying gift certificates. This is the first event I have ever attempted to do, so wish us luck!
Sunday was such a gorgeous day at my mom's house.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Good Morning Sunshine!
Our whole marriage, Josh has begged me to get up with him in the mornings. During my pregnancies and after Hannah was born, there was no way I would sacrifice my sleep. The past few months I have been pretty good at getting up and making him breakfast/lunch and seeing him off to work. There was a week where I totally slacked, and we both noticed a difference in our relationship. We were not getting along as smoothly as we had previous weeks. So I started getting my lazy self up to be with my man. It's the small things in a marriage that helps keep it healthy and strong. I really am so lucky to have Josh, I adore him.
We have been really busy. I keep thinking I am going to post, but something else comes up and I never make it to my blog. Today I designed a brochure, re-designed my business cards, created a mass e-mail for my holiday boutique coming up on Dec. 6th, and found time to take care of Hannah and the house.
I need to start getting packed for Portland. We had a thanksgiving celebration at my mom's house last night. Let's just say I have been eating light today to try to off set the massive amount of good food.
Well, I am off to put Hannah in the bath tub. She is so funny these days. I love her personality. She's my little girlfriend.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Hannah Peach
A year ago this time we visited Grandma and Grandpa McKibben. I love visiting their farm in November. I wish we were going out there this year. This is the tree they planted for Hannah when she was born. Cute huh?
We will be visiting Josh's brother (Garrett) and family in Portland for Thanksgiving this year. It's been a while since I have been to Portland. I am looking forward to spending time with our cute nieces. I know Hannah will fall in love with them. She was really little last time she met them.
Visiting Grandma and Aunt Jann
Melissa and I went down to So. Cal with the girls for a few days to take care of Grandma and Jann. We were able to give Chelsea (my cousin) a small break. It was a really nice trip. I loved bonding and spending time with my family. I don't see them enough. I used to live at my grandma's house when I was going to school at the Paul Mitchell Skin Academy 4 years ago. My grandma's health is getting worse and my Aunt broke not only her foot, but her arm also. I love those two ladies. It was really fun to be there with Melissa and her girls. Hannah was in HEAVEN with Audrey and Addison around all the time. She is ready for a sibling. She asks to see them now multiple times a day. I really wanted to be able to see a few friends while I was down there, but we were busy non-stop, and stayed close to Jann and Grandma most of the time. We did get to go to Ikea and Balboa Island for a chocolate covered banana.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Products for CHEAP!
Okay you guys. I am not trying to advertise my products on my blog, but I am seriously trying to get rid of some inventory right now. Quantities are limited, so I thought I would share this sale with my friends too. I am practically giving these products away. Click here to see what I am talking about.
If you have been wondering what I have been up to this week, well Hannah and I are feeling under the weather. We have been hanging out at home mostly (and I worked yesterday). I have been really busy updating my websites www.myskincarestore.com and www.balanceyourskin.com. I have also been busy making gift certificates. It's that time of year.
I am really excited about the new facial bed I ordered. It's a fancy electric one that moves up and down, flat and sitting up. My back has been hurting a little lately and I realized it was time to also get a new eurganomic chair for me too.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Happy Halloween!
Yesterday I had clients all day, it was great. I love connecting with these women and helping them with their skin. I am really lucky to have found my passion, and to have my own business (built from scratch and totally dept free!). I love my business. Tomoko continues to save the day and organize my business. I feel so blessed to have her.
This is my skin care room.
What I love even more than my business is spending time with Hannah. Today we painted and carved pumpkins. From the pictures you will be able to tell that art is not a strong talent of ours. Hannah and I had fun though.
Tomoko made us some corn bread blueberry muffins, and Hannah stuffed a whole muffin in her mouth in about 2 minutes. I never knew her mouth was that big! She then sat at the table with her second muffin saying "mmmm, this is special". I haven't baked much at all since before we moved to Germany. I have been really tyring to watch what I eat, so no baking in my home. Hannah is just happy that at least Tomoko bakes for us!
We have 2 parties to go to today, then trick or treating in Scotts Valley with Aunt Melissa and cousins Audrey and Addison. Hannah can't wait. She has been practicing saying "trick or treat" all morning.
This morning Hannah and I snuggled for over 30 minutes in bed. We were singing silly songs and laughing. I can't believe how fast she has grown in one year. This is Hannah a year ago...
And now....
This is my skin care room.
What I love even more than my business is spending time with Hannah. Today we painted and carved pumpkins. From the pictures you will be able to tell that art is not a strong talent of ours. Hannah and I had fun though.
Tomoko made us some corn bread blueberry muffins, and Hannah stuffed a whole muffin in her mouth in about 2 minutes. I never knew her mouth was that big! She then sat at the table with her second muffin saying "mmmm, this is special". I haven't baked much at all since before we moved to Germany. I have been really tyring to watch what I eat, so no baking in my home. Hannah is just happy that at least Tomoko bakes for us!
We have 2 parties to go to today, then trick or treating in Scotts Valley with Aunt Melissa and cousins Audrey and Addison. Hannah can't wait. She has been practicing saying "trick or treat" all morning.
This morning Hannah and I snuggled for over 30 minutes in bed. We were singing silly songs and laughing. I can't believe how fast she has grown in one year. This is Hannah a year ago...
And now....
Butterflies and Beaches
Jacqueline and I took a trip on Wednesday to Santa Cruz to visit the butterflies. The Monarch Butterflies migrate every year to Natural Bridges in Santa Cruz and hang out on the eucalyptus trees. They rest on the leaves and branches and completely cover some of the trees. There are hundreds of them. We played around on the beach before heading back. It was such a nice get away. 
Hannah had a tiny nap in the car, and by the time we got home she was really tired. I tried to lay down with her in my bed, but she was playing around. I decided to go down stairs and take care of some things. When I walked by the stair case this is what I saw....
She slept soundly there for about an hour.
Hannah had a tiny nap in the car, and by the time we got home she was really tired. I tried to lay down with her in my bed, but she was playing around. I decided to go down stairs and take care of some things. When I walked by the stair case this is what I saw....
She slept soundly there for about an hour.
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